Shillong, July 27 : A proud moment for Meghalaya and the Indian caving community unfolded today as the documentary “Achik Kol: The Uncharted Caves of Garo Hills” clinched 1st Place in the Professional Category at the prestigious 19th International Congress of Speleology. The event, held in Belo Horizonte, Brazil, showcases the finest in caving cinema from across the globe.
Directed by Mr. Gregory Allya Warjri and produced by NOMADS Film, “Achik Kol” triumphed over a competitive field of 17 professional and 16 amateur entries from various countries, including Brazil, Australia, France, and Switzerland. The film was presented at the Congress by fellow cavers Mr. Jean Marc Jutzet and Mr. Roman Hapka, and was met with enthusiastic acclaim from the international speleological community.
The win at the International Congress of Speleology marks a significant milestone for “Achik Kol,” which has been steadily gaining momentum on other esteemed platforms. The documentary was previously screened at the Hidden Earth UK Caving Conference on September 22, 2024, at Le Festival des Voyageurs d’Ici in Marly, Switzerland, on November 24, 2024, and at the Evening Club, Shillong, on February 6, 2025.
Looking ahead, “Achik Kol” is set to be screened in schools and colleges across Meghalaya in the coming months. The initiative aims to inspire young minds and future explorers, fostering curiosity in science, adventure, and conservation among youth throughout the region and beyond.
The captivating documentary was filmed during the Core Geo Caving Expedition 2024 in the Garo Hills, Meghalaya. Founded by Thomas Arbenz and Ayush Singh, the Core Geo Caving Expedition brings together Indian and international experts to explore and document some of India’s most remote and scientifically significant cave systems.
A major highlight of the 2024 expedition, and featured in the film, was the groundbreaking discovery of a prehistoric whale fossil in Tolegre. This remarkable find holds immense scientific value, further underscoring the rich geological heritage of Meghalaya’s underground world.
The success of “Achik Kol” is a testament to the dedication and collaboration of a vast team. Heartfelt gratitude has been extended to the core team behind the documentary: Iainangsan Warjri, Lovingstar Khongkai, Derric Lyndem, Dalariti Nongpiur, Benji Syiem, and Sunny Dohling.
Deep appreciation was also conveyed to Tudor Tamas, the Core Geo team, all expedition members, the District Administration, the Nokmas, local guides, the Achik Cavers Exploration Society, the people of Tolegre and Nokatgre, traditional artists, and TMPRO Recordings for their vital roles in bringing the project to fruition.
Special acknowledgment was given to Dr. Vijay Kumar, IAS, for his unwavering support and guidance, particularly in facilitating the safe handling and recognition of the fossil discovery. The team also expressed profound gratitude to Meghalayan Age Ltd and the Government of Meghalaya for their ongoing support in promoting scientific exploration and creative storytelling.
This significant achievement not only places Meghalaya firmly on the global speleological map but also celebrates the region’s rich underground heritage, vibrant storytelling tradition, and unyielding spirit of exploration.
