A documentary film produced by a faculty member of the Indian Institute of Management Ahmedabad (IIMA) has won a prestigious award. Professor Rajesh Chandwani’s film, ‘God, Vultures and Human’, received the Best Documentary Film award at the 71st National Film Awards for 2023. This film highlights the vital role of Organ Transplant Coordinators (OTCs) in India’s healthcare system. Directed by Rishiraj Agarwal and produced by Professor Chandwani and Studio Lichi, the documentary portrays the emotional journey of organ donation and transplantation.
Professor Chandwani is part of the Human Resources Management Area at IIMA. He also serves as Co-Chairperson of the Centre for Management of Health Services. His work focuses on healthcare management, Human Resource Management, and Information Technology.
In his remarks about the film’s recognition, Professor Chandwani expressed both humility and pride. He stated, “I feel both humbled and proud to see our film ‘God, Vultures and Human’ receive the National Award for Best Documentary. This recognition is a tribute to the tireless efforts of Organ Transplant Coordinators across India and the emotional journeys they undertake.” He hopes the film inspires viewers by highlighting the hope and life that can emerge from grief.
The documentary premiered at the Indian Society of Organ Transplantation Conference 2024 (ISOT 2024) in Ahmedabad. It has been selected for screening at various prestigious film festivals, including the Dokubaku International Documentary Film Festival in Baku, Azerbaijan.
‘God, Vultures and Human’ offers a heartfelt exploration of the critical role of OTCs. These professionals often serve as the bridge between life and death. The film showcases their unique ability to provide comfort to grieving families while coordinating with hospitals, police, and other stakeholders involved in organ donation.
OTCs are often seen as ‘God’s messengers’ by donor families. However, the film also reveals their struggles. They face the challenges of managing high-pressure situations and the emotional toll of their work. The film captures the demanding balance they maintain between their professional duties and personal lives.
The documentary was created in collaboration with the Mohan Foundation, an NGO in Chennai focused on organ donation and transplantation training. This partnership adds depth to the film, as it reflects the real-life complexities faced by OTCs.
The creators of the film hope that this recognition will raise awareness about the organ transplantation process. They aim to honour the selfless work of OTCs, who play a crucial role in giving the gift of life every day. The film seeks to humanise these professionals and highlight the importance of their work in society.
In conclusion, ‘God, Vultures and Human’ not only stands as a testament to the hard work of OTCs but also serves as a reminder of the emotional landscapes navigated by all those involved in organ donation and transplantation. With its recent accolade, the film is set to reach a broader audience, helping to shed light on this essential aspect of healthcare in India.