Dreams of Birds Flying in the Sky

Dreams of Birds Flying in the Sky (2021)

A documentary by Arun Bhattarai | Bhutan | 58 minutes

Set against the dramatic landscapes of the Himalayan kingdom of Bhutan, Dreams of Birds Flying in the Sky explores the lives, aspirations, and challenges of people with disabilities as they navigate education, employment, family, and community life.

Through intimate personal stories, the film reveals the complex intersections of disability, culture, gender, and geography in a country celebrated for its philosophy of Gross National Happiness. From remote mountain villages to urban communities, the individuals featured in the film confront social barriers and limited opportunities while pursuing independence, meaningful work, and belonging.

Both poignant and hopeful, Dreams of Birds Flying in the Sky challenges conventional understandings of disability and happiness, asking what it truly means to live a fulfilling life – and what it takes to create a society in which everyone has the opportunity to pursue their dreams.

Directed by Arun Bhattarai and produced by Fora Films, the documentary emerged from an international research collaboration exploring meaningful work and social inclusion for young people with disabilities in Bhutan.

Awards and Festival Recognition

Awards

• Critics' Choice Award – Druk International Film Festival (2021)
• Best Documentary – Kanchenjunga International Film Festival (2022)
• Award Winner – The IndieFEST Film Awards (2022)
• Award Winner – The Impact DOCS Awards (2022)

Official Selections

• Cinematic Spaces of Education Film Festival (2022)
• Conquering Disabilities With Film International Film Festival (2022)
• Tricycle Film Club (2023)

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Support Independent Filmmaking

Dreams of Birds Flying in the Sky is available on a pay-what-you-want basis. We believe important stories should be accessible to everyone, regardless of their ability to pay. Any financial contributions will support future Fora Films productions and educational projects in Bhutan and around the world.