DEF conducted an ‘Ethnographic Study’ on migrant labourers to assess the impact of Covid-19 crisis on them from diverse perspectives and a way forward. This involved—travelling to most affected states of India—Uttar Pradesh, Bihar and Jharkhand. In each state, 4-5 villages were visited, which witnessed substantial number of migrant labourers forced to return due to the crisis. In the process, over 60 migrant labourers were video interviewed collectively in three states—in their natural habitat, while observing and recording their experiences and gathering vital insights. Video documentation was undertaken on Iphone 11 during the 16 day road trip—from 12th June to 27th June—under tough circumstances in which over 2000 kms. Iphone 11 was a conscious technical choice to improve mobility during the shoot and to be respectably less intrusive in areas which were still under partial lockdown and amongst affected people who were in constant state of turmoil ridden with anxiety, desperation, frustration, pain and agony. We came across angry youth and despondent families who were struggling hopelessly and helplessly. This film is an outcome of heart-wrenching experiences shared by the migrants during video documentation, which deserve to be brought before an international audience. The film is designed to present the true picture of the unique situation on the ground with unprecedented consequences as starkly as possible. Iphone 11 not only helped in maintaining optimum production quality, the format also allowed migrant workers to express themselves openly.
