Fabeha Monir

Photojournalist

fabehamonir.net

Life Under The Needle

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School: Ateneo De Manila University , The International Center of Photography (ICP) Falmouth University

Climate change in the Barind region

Video Production: WaterAid Bangladesh

Producer and Director: Fabeha Monir

Cinematography: Mohammad Rakibul Hasan

The Barendra region of northwestern Bangladesh is facing a severe water crisis driven by climate change. Once known for its fertile lands, this 10,000 sq km area spanning Dinajpur, Rangpur, Pabna, Rajshahi, Bogura, and Joypurhat districts is now becoming an arid desert. The drastic depletion of groundwater levels and drying up of rivers like the Padma and Mohananda have put the livelihoods of over 5 million people at risk. Agriculture, commerce, and local ecosystems bear the brunt of reduced river flow. Recurring droughts and scanty rainfall have exacerbated the situation, with temperatures soaring up to 43°C, accelerating evaporation and intensifying the water crisis for crops and drinking. Urgent action is needed to mitigate this environmental catastrophe. While government initiatives like dredging the Padma River offer a glimmer of hope, comprehensive measures involving all stakeholders are crucial to restoring the lost abundance of the Barendra region.

'SHAMIMA: Memory In My Heart'

Uprooted by the Myanmar military and driven from their home, Ameena Khatun and her Rohingya family live a new life in Balukhali, Bengladesh, amidst daily struggles for provisions and basic human necessities. But while trying to secure basic living this Ramadan, Ameena holds one member of the family of 12 dearest of all: her daughter Shamima who died of starvation on the way from Myanmar. However, the family has no way to remember her by, no photos, no clothing, no mementos. And for Ameena, who can’t draw or speak confidently, the memory of her daughter will be lost to posterity outside her family, except perhaps for this document of a film.

Film by Professor RAY LC and Filmmaker Fabeha Monir, 'SHAMIMA: Memory In My Heart', Showed at NYC Short Documentary Film Festival 2020