Srinagar, March 26: Kashmir’s filmmaker Dr. Aijaz Ahmad Khan’s documentary `Deodar – Roots of Paradise’ has been officially selected for screening at the prestigious Eastern Green Frog Film Festival 2025, scheduled to be held at Eastern Connecticut State University, USA on April 12.
The film, a cinematic tribute to Kashmir’s majestic Deodar forests, delves into the spiritual, cultural, and environmental significance of these ancient trees — often called the “guardians of the valley.” Covering more than 30 percent of Kashmir’s total forest area, Deodar trees play a critical role in maintaining ecological balance, preventing landslides, preserving water sources, and supporting diverse wildlife.
However, the documentary reveals the alarming rate of deforestation in the region. Over the last 50 years, 19 percent of Kashmir’s forest cover has been lost, primarily due to illegal logging and rapid urbanization. “Deodar” highlights that every year, over 2.5 million cubic feet of timber is felled illegally, fueling a black-market trade estimated at ₹500 crore annually, with Deodar being the most prized species.
The film powerfully links deforestation to natural disasters, including the 2014 Kashmir floods, which claimed over 200 lives and displaced 600,000 people. Experts cited large-scale tree cutting and soil erosion as major contributors to the catastrophe. The shrinking of water bodies like the Dal Lake, which has lost nearly 30% of its area due to siltation and environmental degradation, also features prominently.
In an emotional appeal, the film urges people to stop cutting Deodar trees and protect what is described as “our gold, our treasure — strong and beautiful.” It further warns that the destruction of forests today will burden future generations with environmental disasters, including landslides and the loss of fertile farmland.
Speaking about the selection, Dr. Aijaz Ahmad Khan, who has received several national honors for his contribution to media and social awareness campaigns, said:
“Deodar is not just a film, it’s a movement. It reflects the bond our people share with nature and the urgent need to protect our forests. The world needs to see what we stand to lose if we fail to act now.”
Dr. Khan further added that the film aims to inspire collective action toward conservation and responsible tourism. The documentary also showcases the efforts of the J&K Forest Department, which has planted over 5 lakh Deodar saplings annually and restored 15,000 hectares of degraded forests under various government schemes.
The Eastern Green Frog Film Festival focuses on films related to sustainability, climate change, and environmental conservation. “Deodar – Roots of Paradise” will be screened alongside global entries that address critical environmental issues.