‘Ajima and 6 Gender Identities’, a documentary film directed and produced by Sunil Babu Panta was screened for a limited audience at Martin Chautari, Kathmandu on Friday.

The documentary delves into Kathmandu’s matriarchal history, focusing on the Ajima goddesses, and the complex relationship between patriarchal and matriarchal values. The film explores diverse genders and sexualities and presents a profound reflection on cultural heritage and modern gender issues.

The Ajima goddesses, revered as grandmother figures, serve as protectors of Kathmandu and symbolise the matriarchal ideals of wisdom, bravery and nurturing.

Panta’s documentary showcases Kathmandu City through matriarchal perspective while bringing to light the temples that value female yoni.

Panta expressed his desire for foreigners to visit Nepal to study gender studies and for Nepali people to pursue PhDs in this field. He emphasised that this documentary is a valuable resource for learners interested in gender studies, and it is one of the primary reasons he created it.

After the screening, an interactive session took place where every audience shared their opinions regarding the documentary and offered feedback to Panta.

The documentary is planning to be released next week.