Mata Sahib Kaur Ji's awesome story is largely untold, but that's about to change…
March is the month that features International Women's Day and the cinematic release of Captain Marvel (a female superhero that just happens to be the strongest Avenger in the Marvel universe). It's truly a time to celebrate the achievements and contribution of women. As Sikhs, we need look no further than our own religion to find an awe-inspiring heroine who defied convention.
So who was Mata Sahib Kaur Ji and why does her life-story need to be shared with the world?
She was a pioneer in a time of endemic inequality and sexism. Not only was she given the responsibility of the Sikh nation, but led it for forty years. Granted the title of 'The Mother of the Khalsa' by the tenth Guru, she proved herself to be a fearless pioneer and armed warrior. Aside from her martial qualities, Mata Sahib Kaur showed great compassion and inclusivity, helping all who entered her court (regardless of religion, caste or status). To cite a few examples among many, she helped poverty-stricken families by covering the costs of their daughters' marriages. She also had wells dug for farmers whose livelihoods were crippled by drought.
Though revered at every Sikh initiation ceremony, Mata Sahib Kaur Ji's contribution to society is largely unknown.
Motherhood: The Journey of Mata Sahib Kaur is a 3D animation that will shed light on the life story of Mata Ji and provide contemporary audiences with a role-model that can teach so much, even today.
The movement for women's rights has been a long and complex one but it is something that is rooted in the Sikh faith. Over 500 years ago Guru Nanak Dev Ji so eloquently declared: "Why call her inferior, she from whom kings are born?" Sikhism was one of the first religions to outline the equal status of women, enabling them to partake in all religious, spiritual and cultural activities. Mata Sahib Kaur was the true embodiment of these ideals; a trailblazer during the widespread discrimination and oppression of women on the Indian subcontinent.
Motherhood: The Journey of Mata Sahib Kaur is the brainchild of Nihal Nihal Nihal Productions (NP3), a company with a unique yet attainable vision. NP3 aims to create 20 high quality 3D animations over the next 10-15 years. These movie masterpieces will become compelling viewing experiences, as well as valuable educational resources for current and future generations. The Sikh religion's rich heritage will be immortalised in animation and form part of a timeless legacy.
So, who's in the privileged position of directing this ambitious project? That would be one Dr. Karandeep Singh PhD, a specialist in digital analytics and data driven conversion optimisation. He has chosen to dedicate his life to voluntary work in India and one of his goals is to showcase Mata Sahib Kaur's journey in this ultra-modern 3D format. Dr. Singh feels proud and honoured to be doing the seva of directing Motherhood: The Journey of Mata Sahib Kaur.
Meanwhile, here are two movie teasers to watch:
Teaser 1:
Teaser 2:
Furthermore, the task of creating the 3D animation has been given to iRealities. They are the team behind 'Chaar Sahibzaade', the highest grossing Indian animation film in history. Their expertise will make an already remarkable story into a truly immersive experience.
You may also be surprised to learn that the movie does not have the financial backing of a big film studio. Funding is coming from the worldwide community; it is a project that is for the sangat, by the sangat. What's more, the revenue that is generated will fund the next animation and this will fund the third, and so on. It's an ambitious undertaking and with the community's help, one that can be achieved.
If you would like a flavour of what to expect, two breath-taking movie teasers have been released. Just head to the Nihal Nihal Nihal Productions channel on YouTube. For more extensive information about the animated movie and how you can show your support, go to www.motherhoodthemovie.com.
At a time when many are making a stand and demanding that the equal status of women be addressed in all facets of society, this movie will do much to advance the cause of female empowerment. So let's unite and support the project in any way we can; bring Mata Sahib Kaur to the world and give it a new role model to aspire to.