Mumbai: The upcoming All Living Things Environmental Film Festival (ALTEFF) is set to open with the acclaimed documentary Turtle Walker, produced by celebrated filmmaker Zoya Akhtar alongside Reema Kagti, Taira Malaney, and the Oscar-winning HHMI Tangled Bank Studios. Scheduled to run from December 4 to 14, ALTEFF celebrates films that highlight climate awareness, environmental activism, and the intricate relationship between humans and nature.

Since its world premiere at DOC NYC in 2024, Turtle Walker has captivated audiences globally, earning accolades and recognition at major international festivals. Among its honors are the Conservation Award at the International Ocean Film Festival and the dual wins of the ‘Conservation’ and ‘Grand Teton’ Awards at the Jackson Wild Media Awards—considered among the highest distinctions in nature and environmental filmmaking.

A Tribute to a Quiet Environmental Hero

Directed by Taira Malaney, Turtle Walker tells the extraordinary story of Satish Bhaskar, an Indian pioneer in the field of sea turtle conservation. Beginning in the late 1970s, Bhaskar embarked on a remarkable journey along India’s coastline, dedicating his life to studying and protecting these endangered creatures. He lived alongside the rare sea turtles, observing their behaviors and unraveling the mysteries of their life cycles, ultimately setting out to prevent their extinction.

Zoya Akhtar, who backed the project, described the documentary as a homage to the quiet heroism of one individual. “Satish Bhaskar’s journey reminds us how deeply special every living being on this planet is, and we are excited to have it showcased at ALTEFF—a festival that supports and champions the environment and wildlife,” Akhtar said.

Festival director Kunal Khanna echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the broader significance of Bhaskar’s story. “This is not just about conservation. It’s about commitment, humility, and the power of one individual to change the course of environmental history. Turtle Walker embodies the essence of what ALTEFF stands for: celebrating stories that reconnect us with the natural world and inspire meaningful action,” Khanna said.

Behind the Lens: Crafting the Story

Director Taira Malaney described her experience making the documentary as both inspiring and humbling. “Working on Bhaskar’s story instilled a deep wonder for our marine world. And more importantly, it gave me a renewed sense of hope at a time when I needed it most,” she said. Through meticulous research, on-location shoots along India’s sprawling coastlines, and close interaction with marine life experts, Malaney brought Bhaskar’s journey to life on screen, creating a vivid portrait of environmental dedication and resilience.

Producer Reema Kagti highlighted the delicate balance captured in the film between the fragility and resilience of nature. “This is a story that needs to be shared with as many audiences as possible. ALTEFF is a perfect platform for this India-rooted story, and we are delighted that it is the opening film of the festival,” she said. The film’s narrative not only celebrates Bhaskar’s conservation efforts but also draws attention to the broader challenges facing marine ecosystems, emphasizing the urgency of protecting biodiversity.

Global Recognition and Impact

Turtle Walker has resonated with international audiences and environmentalists alike. Its screenings at festivals around the world have not only highlighted the critical plight of sea turtles but also celebrated Bhaskar’s dedication, inspiring viewers to reflect on their own relationship with the natural world. By combining stunning cinematography with a compelling narrative of scientific perseverance, the documentary bridges the gap between education and entertainment, making it accessible to audiences of all ages.

ALTEFF: A Celebration of Environmental Storytelling

ALTEFF, now in its 2025 edition, has become a significant platform for filmmakers focusing on environmental issues. The festival aims to spotlight stories that provoke thought, inspire action, and build awareness around pressing ecological challenges. With Turtle Walker as its opening film, ALTEFF continues its tradition of showcasing films that reconnect people with nature while celebrating the unsung heroes who dedicate their lives to protecting it.

The festival will feature a mix of feature-length documentaries, short films, and panel discussions, creating a comprehensive space for dialogue between filmmakers, conservationists, and the audience. The inclusion of a film like Turtle Walker as the opening feature underscores the festival’s commitment to highlighting environmental narratives that combine scientific insight with human storytelling.

Looking Ahead

As audiences gear up for ALTEFF 2025, Turtle Walker stands out not only as a cinematic achievement but also as a call to action. The documentary exemplifies the power of storytelling in raising awareness about conservation, demonstrating that one individual’s dedication can inspire a global audience to care for and protect our planet. With its combination of compelling visuals, inspiring narrative, and global acclaim, the film promises to set a high standard for the rest of the festival.

Zoya Akhtar, Reema Kagti, and Taira Malaney’s collaborative effort has brought an Indian conservationist’s story to the world stage, reminding viewers that environmental heroism often unfolds quietly, away from the spotlight, yet has the power to transform the world. By choosing Turtle Walker as the opening film, ALTEFF signals its commitment to honoring such stories and encouraging audiences to engage with the planet’s most pressing ecological concerns.