Holiwater

Two Indian mystics journey in search of a missing son to find that the River Ganges is dying. Kannai, a blind and ailing mystical poet of the Baul musical tradition is aware he has only one journey remaining in him and sets off accompanied by lifelong friend and fellow musician Deb Das. The two companions follow the River Ganges from the Bay of Bengal up to its sources in the holy Himalayas. Throughout the journey, Deb Das acts as the eyes of his blind friend, describing in detail each new experience they face. What Deb Das's words try to hide to his friend, however, is his growing disillusionment as he begins to witness the extent to which the lifeblood of India, the Ganges, is unwell. A hidden India unfolds as the friends progress on their path. A string of comic, colorful, and musical encounters with fellow mystics follow during rickety train rides, sojourns on houseboats, religious festivals, and meanderings across India's breathtaking and unforgiving landscapes. Throughout the journey, Deb Das acts as the eyes of his blind friend, describing in vivid detail each new experience they face. What Deb Das's words try to hide to his friend, however, is his growing disillusionment as he begins to witness the extent to which the lifeblood of India, the Ganges, is unwell. Kapoorian chaplainesque comic warmth, Natural realism and genuine friendship spreading over 12 years of filmmaking imprints its intimacy scene after scene.