Documentary feature | The Country of Georgia | United States | 85 min.
In post production
Directed by Giorgi Kharebava and Lesya Kalinska
Written by Niko Abazadze
Cinematography: Giorgi Kharebava, Serhiy Mykhalchuk
Produced by Niko Abazadze, Noshre Chkhaidze
In the heart of the rugged mountainous terrain of Khevsureti, Georgia, lies a world where time seems to stand still. In our rapidly advancing technological era, where the comforts of warm water, phones, and electricity are deemed essential, the ancient traditions of Khevsureti offer a profound reminder of values often overlooked in modern society.
As the relentless march of technology propels us forward, the pursuit of material comforts has overshadowed the deeper, intrinsic values crucial for personal and spiritual fulfillment. The relentless march of the "technical revolution" has reduced humanity to mere consumers, dependent on gadgets and gizmos for validation and identity.
Yet amidst this upheaval, there are those who stand as warriors, fiercely guarding the timeless values of honor, integrity, and tradition. In Khevsureti, where honor holds greater sway than the allure of material possessions, these warriors are often misunderstood and mocked, likened to Don Quixote tilting at windmills. But in their steadfast adherence to age-old customs and beliefs, they offer a beacon of hope in a world increasingly consumed by the relentless pursuit of progress. Join us as we journey into the heart of Khevsureti, where ancient traditions thrive amidst the tumult of modernity, and discover the enduring power of honor and tradition in shaping the human spirit.
Enter the enigmatic realm of Khevsureti, where the heartbeat of an entire nation pulses through the veins of its ancient culture. From the cradle to the grave, the spirit of the Khevsurians has been forged in the crucible of the warrior, symbolized by the mighty sword that has long been their emblem of strength and honor.
Yet, with the dawn of Soviet rule, the very essence of Khevsurian identity came under siege. In a bid to quell any perceived threat to their regime, the Soviets enacted measures to dismantle this cherished culture, banning the bearing and wielding of swords and shields in Khevsureti in 1950. Thus began the slow erosion of an age-old legacy, leaving only a handful of resilient households clinging to existence, their numbers dwindling further with each passing winter.
In this poignant film, we navigate the delicate balance between tradition and modernity, shining a light on the consequences of societal upheaval. Amidst the turmoil of self-doubt and insecurity, the men of Khevsureti stand as a beacon of resilience, their unwavering commitment to honor and strength a testament to the enduring power of tradition.
Join us as we pay homage to the forgotten values of Khevsureti, a poignant reminder of the richness and depth of a culture teetering on the brink of extinction.