Screened as part of TOAFF11

Sampat Pal, like many others young girls in India, was married into a family which beat her often. But unusually, she fought back, leaving her in-laws and becoming famous as a champion for beleaguered women throughout Uttar Pradesh, many of whom find their way to her doorstep.

Rekha, a 14 year-old untouchable, is three months pregnant and homeless unable to marry her unborn child’s father because of her low caste. Fifteen year-old Renu’s husband from an arranged marriage has abandoned her and she’s threatening to throw herself under a train. Both desperate young women, reach out for their only hope – Sampat Pal.

Pink Saris is an unflinching and often amusing look at these unlikely political activists and their charismatic leader. In extraordinary scenes, we watch her launch herself into the centre of family dramas, convinced her mediation is the best path for these vulnerable girls. Her partner Babuji, who has watched Sampat Pal change over the years, is less certain.