A new 26minute cinematic trilogy is drawing attention to the significant environmental challenges and pollution confronting the Indus River, presenting a stark portrayal of an artist distressed between the waterway’s natural beauty and the encroaching damage from industry.

According to a statement issued today, the film, titled ‘The River Sublime,’ was showcased at the Josh Malihabadi Library in an event hosted by the Arts Council of Pakistan Karachi’s Fine Arts Committee. The production philosophically and poetically explores three distinct ecological spheres of the vital river.

This artistic endeavor features the perspectives of three different artists-NadeemAlKarimi, Sadqain Riaz, and Qadir Jhatiyal-who each interpret a separate ecosystem of the Indus. Curated by Nusrat Khawaja, the trilogy’s stated aim is to generate awareness about the river”s profound significance and the urgent need for its conservation.

Beyond its environmental message, the production also highlights the immense natural beauty and the rich culture intrinsically linked to the river, offering a comprehensive look at its value to the region.

A brief discussion session followed the screening, moderated by Farrukh Tanveer Shahab. Panelists Atiqa Malik, Bushra Hussain, and the film’s curator, Nusrat Khawaja, shared their insights on the project.

Speaking at the event, Khawaja explained that the cinematic work depicts how “all colors are flowing into the river,” while an artist “stands distressed between the river and a factory, reflecting both water and contradiction.” She added that the presentation explicitly identifies the elements that are polluting and damaging the river system.

Atiqa Malik noted that the final piece is the result of a collective, diligent effort, with all three artists working on the production for three months. Adding to this, Bushra Hussain remarked that the film achieved its final form only after the three creators successfully merged their individual ideas into a cohesive vision.