“Janani” by Flavien Kressmann
'Janani' tells the story of a social activist navigating the new demands of motherhood and her desire to continue bringing social change into the world. As she fights to maintain her voice and purpose beyond domestic life, she embarks on a reflection on what it means to be both a mother and a changemaker.
FROM THE DIRECTOR
“Motherhood is a profound transformation—one that reshapes identity, purpose, and the delicate balance between personal ambition and caregiving. Janani the film is born from this tension, a deeply personal yet universal exploration of the intricate journey women embark on when they become mothers.
With this film, we sought to capture the quiet struggles and unspoken emotions of women stretched between the relentless demands of a newborn and the longing to hold onto their passions and sense of self beyond domestic life. Janani is a reflection on resilience, love, and the evolving meaning of relevance.
The word Janani itself means mother—a name that should resonate with women who navigate motherhood with both grit and grace. Our hope is that this film serves as both a mirror and a companion, offering a sensitive, nuanced portrayal of the complexities of parenthood while honoring the courage it takes to embrace both the beauty and the struggle of this journey.
We met Janani in Basel and we were immediately drawn by her story and beautiful voice. Back in India, Janani was an anti-corruption activist and continues to carry her fights through blogging and building community.”
-Flavien Kressmann
CREDITS
FEATURING
Janani Sridharan, Abinav Kumar, Kedar A.J Hans, Lena Bänziger, Amina Bänziger
PRODUCER, DIRECTOR, FIRST CAMERA and EDITOR// Flavien Kressmann/ @flavienkressmann
CO PRODUCER, CO DIRECTOR and SECOND CAMERA// Sarah Des Rosier/ @sarah_desrosiers_
ORIGINAL SOUNDTRACK and SOUND MIX
Zikali/ @zikali_production , Jonathan Labigne, Yann Chapelet
CREATIVE SUPPORT// The Art of Documentary community/ @theartofdocumentary
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