In post-production, with a mooted delivery of July 2025, Kalari by Maria Kaur Bedi and Satindar Singh Bedi concerns the study and practice of the eponymous kalari, the world’s oldest martial art, which is becoming increasingly significant in a society where violence against women is both a historical and a daily reality, the project notes underline.
“We cannot change the world if we don’t change how people feel about its changes and challenges,” says Daniel Schneider of First Hand Films, the production company behind the film (together with fellow Swiss Spirited Heroine). “Film has the unique tool to convey social and political messages through emotions. In Kalari we follow three women in a direct cinema style, capturing their journey of self-empowerment through the ancient martial art (called kalari) that was banned during the British occupation—serving as a means of self-expression, community, and a catalyst for reclaiming space in society.”
“We believe that films are a powerful tool to change minds because they foster empathy, allowing audiences to see the world through new perspectives,” Schneider adds. “By exposing them [audiences] to unfamiliar realities, it broadens their understanding of complex issues and connects them to untold stories. Here, we follow Arushi (9) and Milena (22) on their individual journeys – we laugh with them, fear for them, and sweat with them…”
He further outlines the Impact goals and strategy for the film, in both local and international terms. In Kerala (India) the aims are to empower women and girls through the promotion of women-led kalari training sessions before or after the screenings; to host an initial 20 community screenings in Kerala at schools, universities and kalari centers, and to advocate for self-defence education through flyers and social media tutorials. The aim is to replicate this internationally, starting in Switzerland, launching monthly self-defence sessions in Swiss parks, inspired by the parkrun movement; organise screenings at schools, scout camps and martial arts centers, and to encourage advocacy, donations and martial arts training for women.
To facilitate these goals in India, the Impact team will look to partner with female trainers and secure venues, all the time promoting the initiative via flyers, social media, and local media. Post-screening discussions with experts and protagonists will be arranged while self-defence programmes in schools will be organised and promoted. This will be largely replicated in Switzerland and internationally, with a social media campaign to increase reach.
“The film’s impact lies in the emotional bond between viewers and protagonists,” Schneider stresses. “When audiences invest in their journey, they experience their struggles, hopes, and transformations first-hand. Authenticity and creativity make these narratives compelling and memorable.”
“But a good film is only a prerequisite—the magic happens when it reaches its audience,” he continues. “Meaningful impact requires collaboration, from development to distribution with allies, finding synergies, and combining efforts while leveraging all available tools to drive change. That’s why we are proud to be part of FIFDH, contributing to bringing together people united by their commitment to human rights and discussing how we can support each other most effectively.”
“In the long run, as we unfortunately believe the film’s topic will remain relevant for years to come, we intend to make the film accessible in shorter formats,” Schneider adds. “Through GoseeStories, we aim to overcome time constraints by adapting the project for school lessons, 10-minute NGO presentations, and other special events.”
Schneider describes the qualities of the film, its directors and the overall business package. “Kalari is the second feature documentary by Maria Kaur Bedi and Satindar Kaur Bedi. Beyond its cinematography in a direct cinema style, which creates an intimate connection with the film’s heroines, its strength lies in its portrayal of women as powerful individuals who take action for themselves and reclaim their space.”
“With First Hand Films as the main producer, sales agent and theatrical distributor in Switzerland, [and] Spirited Heroine, MDR/ARTE and SRG/SRF as co-producers, we believe this beautiful film has the potential to reach a wide audience. We are confident that girls and women around the world will feel empowered while watching it,” Schneider signs off.
