During a recent screening of the film Whistle, Nimrit Sidhu, who portrayed the granddaughter in the film, reflected on the significance of its themes advocating for gender equality and the fight for women’s rights. Now a teenager, Sidhu emphasized how her understanding of the film’s messages has evolved since she first participated four years ago.
The event, hosted by the Chetna Association of Canada on September 14, marked the lead-up to Gender Equality Week, which is celebrated annually in Canada during the fourth week of September. This year’s observance runs from September 22 to 28.
Jai Birdi, executive director of the Chetna Association, addressed attendees, highlighting the importance of acknowledging both the progress Canada has made in advancing gender equality and the challenges that persist. “Women continue to face numerous struggles,” Birdi stated. “While we celebrate their accomplishments, there are still many steps to take.”
The event also honored two Indian medical doctors whose tragic stories underscored ongoing issues of violence and discrimination. Dr. Pamposh, aged 26, tragically took her own life after experiencing caste-related discrimination, which Birdi described as indicative of systemic barriers. Additionally, Dr. Moumita Debnath, 31, was brutally assaulted and murdered in Kolkata in August 2024.
Birdi used these examples to illustrate the widespread impact of violence, emphasizing that it transcends economic and social boundaries. “Our goal is to create a universal landscape where everyone can live in harmony and respect, regardless of gender,” he said.
The screening took place in the Dr. Ambedkar Room at the Surrey Library City Centre, a venue chosen for its long-standing partnership with the Chetna Association since the room was named in honor of Dr. Ambedkar in 2012. Birdi noted that the film’s themes resonate with the Gender Equality Week focus: “Unlocking potential: economic power through gender equality.”
Whistle, a collaborative production by Creative Heights Productions and Dynamic Creative Horizons, uses the symbol of a whistle to challenge societal beliefs that restrict women’s actions. “The film confronts the idea that ‘girls don’t blow whistles,’ highlighting how societal taboos limit women’s potential,” Birdi explained.
Written by Navjot Dhillon and directed by Navraj Raja, the short film was produced in Surrey four years ago. Following the screening, audience members, filmmakers, and organizers engaged in discussions about the film and broader topics related to gender equality.
The grandfather character, portrayed by Tarlok Sablok, encouraged the audience to embrace acceptance and happiness, urging them not to emulate his past grumpy demeanor. “Don’t be like a grumbling and grumpy old man like me,” he advised, reflecting on the film’s transformative message.
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