porter of the kargil War|Dolby Vision
In 1999, during the Kargil War, a brave porter climbed 17,000 feet to Tiger Hill, carrying ammunition and supplies to our soldiers amidst extreme conditions and enemy fire. His courage and sacrifice played a crucial role in India’s victory, yet his story remains unheard.
Shooting in Dras, one of the coldest inhabited places on Earth, was an intense battle against the elements. With temperatures dropping to -18°C, every moment behind the camera tested my endurance. As a one-person crew handling direction, cinematography, and post-production, I had no backup—just me, my gear, and the unforgiving cold.
The freezing air made my fingers go numb, making even the simplest camera adjustments a struggle. My batteries drained rapidly, forcing me to conserve power and shoot efficiently. The camera lens fogged up, my tripod stiffened, and the unpredictable snow flurries blurred visibility, making each shot a challenge. Every movement was exhausting; walking through knee-deep snow with heavy gear on my back pushed my body to its limits.
But the hardest part wasn’t just the physical toll—it was staying focused despite the relentless cold. With no crew to assist, every frame, every shot, and every technical detail was on me. And when the filming was over, the real challenge began—post-production. Editing meant working with footage affected by harsh conditions—distorted audio from gusty winds, shaky frames from frozen hands, and the daunting task of color grading against the stark, blinding white of the snow.
Yet, despite it all, the experience was unforgettable. Every struggle was worth it to bring this story to life, to capture a moment in history that deserved to be told. This wasn’t just about filmmaking—it was about resilience, dedication, and pushing beyond limits to share a story that needed to be heard.