TEHRAN –Iranian director Farshid Azari’s documentary “Drops Give Life” received the Baikal Prize at the 22nd edition of the Baikal Film Festival, which came to an end in the Russian city of Irkutsk on Saturday. 

The festival, centered around the theme of 'People and Environment', recognized the film for its powerful portrayal of the environmental crisis and it was awarded the prize for effectively highlighting the seriousness of this issue, the organizers announced. 

The film follows the life of Masht Hossein, a compassionate rancher who deeply values nature. Despite facing challenging conditions, Masht Hossein has dedicated over three decades to trekking through unforgiving terrain to provide water for the parched animals and birds in the drought-ridden area.

Through his unwavering commitment, the area comes alive with newfound vitality. After completing the arduous journey, Masht Hossein, exhausted yet content, finds solace in witnessing the birds and animals quench their thirst, finding joy in their satisfaction.

The Grand Prix of the festival was given to the Russian feature film “Under the Sky Eternal and Blue” by Elena Emelyanova.

The best popular science film award was presented to “Shishkinskiye Petroglyphs” by Russian director Yulia Byvsheva. 

“The Spirit of Baikal” by Mikhail Raskhodnikov from Russia received the best feature film award, while the award for the best animated film went to the “A White, White Day” by Vasily Chirkov also from Russia.

SAB/