It Has a Life: Documentary highlights tribal woman’s unique bond with her e-rickshaw

New Delhi: The much-anticipated documentary It Has a Life finally made its official debut at the prestigious 17th Jaipur International Film Festival on Saturday (January 18, 2025). Directed by Saurav Mookherji and produced by a passionate team of independent filmmakers, the documentary offers an inspiring and heartwarming narrative, centered on Bijali Murmu, a remarkable woman from the indigenous community of Salboni, West Bengal.

It Has a Life brings to the screen the extraordinary journey of Bijali Murmu, a mother of two – an athlete and a traditional dancer. She is also the sole breadwinner of her family. Her story unfolds around Phoenix, her beloved purple-colored electronic rickshaw, affectionately known as ‘Toto’. Through Bijali’s life, viewers are introduced to the vibrant cultural traditions of her community, her unwavering determination and her optimistic outlook despite life’s challenges.

The documentary celebrates Bijali’s resilience and her unique relationship with her Toto, which symbolises both her livelihood and her journey through the ‘roads of life’. The film aspires to leave viewers with a sense of hope, joy and inspiration, reminding them of life’s enduring beauty and purpose.

Behind the scenes

The journey of creating It Has a Life began in 2022, when Antara Banerjee first met Bijali during a work trip to Salboni. Over two years of meticulous observation and research culminated in the film’s production. Dr Purba Chakraborty contributed as a researcher, assisting with the film’s subtitles and delving deep into the cultural fabric of the community. The local residents of Salboni played an integral role, supporting the team at every stage of the filmmaking process.

It has a Life is made by a team of filmmakers based out of Kolkata

“Since 2017, I’ve embarked on a cinematic odyssey driven by a singular vision: to create films that transcend entertainment and raise a voice of their own. It Has a Life is a significant milestone in my journey, exploring themes of vitality, resilience, and interconnectedness. It’s a testament to the transformative power of storytelling and its ability to illuminate universal truths,” said Mookherji. Banerjee stated, “Meeting Bijali Di in 2021 sparked a lasting friendship and inspired this project. Her passion for life and curiosity for the unknown are contagious. This film is close to my heart, and I believe it will stir souls and leave an unforgettable impact.”