In an exciting development for nature lovers and documentary enthusiasts alike, the much-anticipated film ‘Turtle Walker’ is set for its grand premiere at DOC NYC 2024. The film, a creative collaboration between Tiger Baby and Emaho Films, is set to captivate audiences on November 17. This visual masterpiece is directed by Taira Malaney and enjoys the backing of Oscar-winning HHMI Tangled Bank Studios. It tells the remarkable and inspiring story of Satish Bhaskar, a name synonymous with sea turtle conservation in India, known affectionately as the Father of Sea Turtle Conservation in the country.
‘Turtle Walker’ delves deep into Bhaskar’s awe-inspiring journey, tracing his steps along India’s vast coastlines during the late 1970s. It was during this time that Bhaskar immersed himself in the lives of these gentle marine creatures, studying and striving to protect them from the brink of extinction. What started as a humble and independent effort in the quaint coastal region of Goa has now blossomed into a major international co-production, spanning over seven years and involving partnerships around the world. The film’s global reach is further extended by Submarine Deluxe, which has secured exclusive sales rights for the documentary.
The film not only portrays Bhaskar’s dedication to the marine environment but also highlights a broader narrative of ocean conservation that resonates on a global scale. ‘Turtle Walker’ has already made waves in the conservation filmmaking community, clinching prestigious accolades such as the ‘Conservation’ and ‘Grand Teton’ Awards at the Jackson Wild Media Awards, an event often referred to as the Oscars of the nature documentary world. Director Taira Malaney herself is no stranger to commendations, having been honored with awards like the “Best Natural History and Wildlife Pitch” at Sunny Side of the Doc in 2019 and the “Emerging Filmmaker Award” at DocEdge Kolkata in 2018.
Reflecting on Bhaskar’s extraordinary life and legacy, Emaho Films founder and director, Taira Malaney, shares her thoughts: “Satish Bhaskar shared a deep wonder for the marine world.
. By telling his story, we aim to inspire global dialogue about ocean conservation.”
Adding to this, Zoya Akhtar of Tiger Baby expressed, “We are passionate about stories that move us. ‘Turtle Walker’ showcases Satish Bhaskar’s unwavering dedication to saving sea turtles, reminding us of the beauty and fragility of our planet.” Together, these voices reinforce the documentary’s commitment to celebrating both Bhaskar’s achievements and the larger mission of environmental preservation.
The production of ‘Turtle Walker’ is credited to a talented team including Zoya Akhtar, Reema Kagti, Angad Dev Singh, Vikram Malaney, and Taira Malaney. Co-written and edited by Sam Rogers, with Krish Makhija serving as associate director and head of cinematography, the documentary pledges to deliver an experience that is as visually stunning as it is inspiring.
The impact of ‘Turtle Walker’ is expected to extend beyond DOC NYC 2024, serving as a poignant call to action for ocean conservation endeavors worldwide. The echo of Satish Bhaskar’s footsteps, as he walked the sandy shores of India, speaks to the enduring influence one individual can have on protecting our planet’s natural wonders.
‘Turtle Walker’ stands as a testament to the resilience and compassion of individuals who dedicate their lives to environmental causes. By bringing Bhaskar’s narrative to the screen, Taira Malaney and her team hope to ignite a broader consciousness and dialogue about the urgent need for conservation efforts. The premiere of this documentary is not just an event; it is a tribute, a celebration, and a rallying call for all who care about the future of our planet.
