Pilgrims of Hatnur Selected for International Tourism Film Festival

A short film titled Pilgrims of Hatnur, which highlights the rich avian diversity and cultural heritage of the Hatnur Dam reservoir in Jalgaon, has been nominated for the 5th International Tourism Short Film Festival 2026.

The film was conceptualised by bird enthusiast Anil Mahajan and produced with the support of the then District Collector Abhijit Raut and the Chatak Nisarga Sanvardhan Sanstha (CNSS). The international festival is scheduled to take place in Pune on September 26 and 27, 2026.

The film portrays the biodiversity of the Hatnur Dam area, specifically the habitats of various bird species and associated cultural traditions, as well as the practice of birdwatching in the region. The Hatnur Dam reservoir on the Tapi River serves as a crucial habitat for birds, attracting large numbers of migratory species annually.

The film aims to showcase the region's avian diversity and natural wealth to a wider audience. Consequently, the nomination for an international festival is considered a significant milestone for Hatnur's natural and cultural heritage.

The film was directed by Arvind Joshi from Pune, with Special Gandhi handling the cinematography. The production process benefited from the valuable contributions of several individuals, including Satyapalsing Rajput, Saurabh Mahajan, Samir Neve, Piyush Mahajan, Rajpalsing Rajput, and Uday Chaudhary.

The nomination has infused new energy into the efforts of the Chatak Nisarga Sanvardhan Sanstha, an organisation dedicated to conserving the nature, birdlife, and biodiversity of the Hatnur region. The achievement is being celebrated across the region.

The Hatnur Dam reservoir is a vital location for birdwatching and conservation efforts. The region's unique cultural heritage and natural beauty make it an attractive destination for tourists and nature enthusiasts. The nomination of Pilgrims of Hatnur for the international film festival is expected to promote the region's tourism and conservation efforts.

The 5th International Tourism Short Film Festival 2026 will provide a platform for the film to reach a global audience, showcasing the beauty and diversity of the Hatnur Dam reservoir. The festival will feature short films from around the world, highlighting various aspects of tourism and cultural heritage.

The nomination of Pilgrims of Hatnur is a significant achievement for the region and the state of Maharashtra. It highlights the importance of conservation efforts and the need to promote sustainable tourism practices. The film's selection for the international festival is expected to have a positive impact on the region's economy and environment.

In conclusion, the nomination of Pilgrims of Hatnur for the 5th International Tourism Short Film Festival 2026 is a major milestone for the region's natural and cultural heritage. The film's selection is expected to promote the region's tourism and conservation efforts, showcasing its unique beauty and diversity to a global audience.