Jaipur: The inspiring story of Piplantri, a village in Rajasthan known for planting 111 trees for every girl child born, has received national recognition through the documentary “Piplantri: A Tale of Eco-Feminism.”
Directed by filmmaker Suraj Kumar, the documentary recently won the 72nd National Film Award for Best Non-Feature Film Promoting Social and Environmental Values. The film is also scheduled to be screened at the 17th Indian Film Festival of Ireland in Dublin later this year.
The documentary showcases how a community transformed personal tragedy into a lasting movement for environmental conservation, gender equality, and sustainable development.
The story of Piplantri began in 2006, when Padma Shri Shyam Sundar Paliwal, a social activist from the village, lost his 16-year-old daughter, Kiran.
Instead of allowing grief to define his life, Paliwal launched an initiative encouraging villagers to plant 111 trees whenever a girl child is born.
Over the years, the initiative has evolved into a community-driven movement that celebrates the birth of girls while promoting environmental restoration and social awareness. The documentary captures this unique tradition through the voices of local residents and scenes of community participation.
Initially conceived as a film on ecological restoration, the documentary gradually evolved into a broader story about the connection between environmental conservation and women’s empowerment. According to director Suraj Kumar, the film demonstrates how protecting nature and promoting gender equality can go hand in hand.
The documentary follows community members as they celebrate the birth of newborn girls through plantation drives, highlighting the village’s collective efforts to create a greener and more inclusive future.
The documentary has been honoured with the 72nd National Film Award in the category:
Best Non-Feature Film Promoting Social and Environmental Values
The recognition highlights the film’s focus on community-led environmental conservation and its portrayal of grassroots social change.
The film is also set to reach international audiences through its screening at the 17th Indian Film Festival of Ireland in Dublin.
The documentary highlights that Piplantri’s success extends beyond plantation drives.
The village has also promoted:
- Women’s participation.
- Community engagement.
- Sustainable livelihoods.
- Environmental awareness.
- Local economic activities.
According to the filmmakers, these initiatives demonstrate how local communities can contribute to broader sustainable development goals through collective action.
Reflecting on the project, Suraj Kumar said community participation is essential for long-term environmental conservation. He believes that while governments can introduce environmental programmes, lasting change depends on active public involvement.
Inspired by Piplantri, Kumar has personally planted more than 200 saplings in his daughter’s name over the past two years, encouraging citizens to adopt similar community-driven environmental initiatives.
