This documentary is a compelling portrayal of the historic farmers’ movement in India

By Harsh Thakor* 

Nishtha Jain’s documentary Farming the Revolution provides a compelling portrayal of the historic farmers’ movement in India, chronicling the 16-month-long protest against the Modi government’s contentious agricultural laws. The film captures the scale and resilience of the movement, during which thousands of farmers, predominantly from Punjab and Haryana, occupied highways and state borders to oppose laws they viewed as threats to their livelihoods.

Set against the backdrop of the COVID-19 pandemic, the documentary delves into the daily lives of the protesters, highlighting their solidarity and determination. From communal cooking and distributing pamphlets to organizing rallies and singing revolutionary songs, the film portrays the multifaceted nature of the movement. It also documents the cultural and historical inspirations that fueled the protests, such as the legacy of Bhagat Singh and Sikh poetry, while addressing the impact of globalization and corporate influence on agriculture.

Through striking visuals, including drone footage and ground-level shots, Farming the Revolution captures both the enormity and humanity of the protest. The documentary avoids glorifying individuals or indulging in propaganda, focusing instead on the collective spirit of the farmers. It examines the broader socio-political context, including the government’s labeling of protesters as agitators, and the challenges posed by harsh weather conditions and state resistance.

The film follows key individuals like Gurbaz Sangha, a young farmer rediscovering his roots at the protest sites; Veerpal Kaur and her sister Beant Khosa, who left their jobs to join the movement; and Joginder Singh Ugrahan, a veteran leader advocating for marginalized farmers and laborers. Women leaders like Harinder Bindu and Jasbir Kaur Natt also receive attention for their pivotal roles in mobilizing diverse groups, including Dalit laborers and youth.

Farming the Revolution goes beyond documenting events to explore the power dynamics in contemporary India, particularly regarding women and labor. The film contrasts mainstream media depictions with its nuanced approach, emphasizing solidarity and self-governance over charismatic leadership. By weaving personal stories into the larger narrative, the documentary offers a vivid and balanced portrayal of one of the most significant social movements in recent Indian history.

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*Freelance journalist