Kathmandu : Sunil Babu Pant’s documentary, ‘Ajima and 6 Gender Identities’, which recently premiered at Martin Chautari in Kathmandu, explores matriarchal history of Kathmandu.

It focuses on the significance of Ajimas, the grandmother goddesses and Tantra, a powerful source of energy and the driving force of creation and existence while highlighting the stark contrast between the patriarchal and matriarchal societal structures.

Pant’s work compares patriarchal practices that typically center around male deities, holding a dogmatic view of truth, and suppressing sexuality, especially for women and sexual minorities, with matriarchal spirituality often revolves around female or feminine deities, celebrates human sexuality, and embraces sensual pleasure.

The documentary argues that Tantra, with its roots in matriarchal principles, recognises six genders, celebrating women’s sexuality, promoting inclusivity and challenging traditional binary gender norms. It portrays Agimas as wise, brave, and nurturing women, who governed the communities in the past, protecting Kathmandu.

Nevertheless, the film brings to light how patriarchal forces have rewritten history of Kathmandu and Nepal as a whole, surpassing matriarchal traditions and imposing their own beliefs.

Pant believes that the documentary can inspire the new generation to adopt inclusivity while empowering women and sexual and gender minorities.

It can be helpful in challenging the global rise of patriarchal systems, he added. Rights activists said that the film would be a gender document.

Commenting on the documentary, rights activist Mina Paudel described the society in the past as more progressive, being relatively free of sexual violence, and having equality.

Similarly, National Assembly member Rekha Sharma expressed the hope that Panta’s work holds potential to change patriarchal mindsets. The documentary is a must-read to know about matriarchal past, she said.

The film will be officially released within this month.