Naomi Shah.
People For Animals
2018,
Direction, CInematography, Editing
The People For Animals unit in Kolkata, known as Ashari is a 4.4 acre shelter cum hospital and research institute. The vision is to help and rescue the reportedly ill and injured stray animals of the city and aid them. With the support and cooperation of some well-wishers from Kolkata, Ashari rescues more than a 100 animals every month and provides treatment to cats, dogs, birds and cattle. At any given point of time, Ashari is home to over 300 animals and house the largest distemper treatment shelter for street dogs in Kolkata.
Ashari has been functioning since 2011, and runs purely on donations. The years have taken a toll on the resources and this is a hindrance in the expansion and continuity of the animal welfare organisation.
About Ashari
The Film
Ashari is significantly limited in its capacity to build outreach and generate awareness about the work that they do, and the financial and operational support that they need.
In an attempt to bridge the gap between the day-to-day operations of Ashari and potential supporters, well-wishers and donors, a social-impact short-film was made to shed light on Ashari’s on-ground work, mission, impact on society, and fund requirements.
The film was screened at Kolkata Gives, a philanthropic platform that invites and connects 15 NGOs and potential donors. The film succeeded in raising a lot of awareness and appreciation from prospective donors, who were able to catch a glimpse of the socially responsible and empathetic operations of Ashari.
With an estimate of 25 lac rupees that came in, money was directed towards improving the infrastructure of the building and medical facilities to cater to the growing number of sick and injured animals coming in everyday. Moreover, Ashari aims to improve it’s staff strength and take better care of their needs. With the aim of investing in an X-ray machine, employing younger veterinary practitioners, and providing more updated training in veterinary sciences to their existing small team of paravets, Ashari is an ever-growing, evolving organisation dedicated to the needs of stray animals.