Feroz Amirkhan: The Visionary Award Winning Documentary Filmmaker

"Vals Paradijs" Makes History with International Filmaward. At the prestigious Septimius Awards at the iconic Pathé Tuschinski Theatre in Amsterdam, the documentary "Vals Paradijs" was awarded the prize for Best Short Documentary. The production by Feroz Amirkhan, Pavan Marhé, and director Patrick Bisschops is the first Surinamese Dutch documentary ever to receive this international honor. A historic milestone for the filmmakers and for the representation of Hindustani stories worldwide.

First international recognition for a forgotten history False Paradise highlights an underexposed chapter in Suriname's colonial history: the period of indentured labor following the abolition of slavery. While slavery officially ended in 1873, a new system of exploitation began shortly thereafter. Thousands of men and women were brought from India to Suriname under misleading contracts. Instead of the promised "paradise," a life of hard labor and oppression awaited them on the plantations. In the documentary, Amirkhan and Marhé embark on a personal quest to rediscover their ancestors.

One of the stories they uncover is that of Fakirchand Rajvanshi, a young man recruited in the early 20th century with the promise of a better life. In reality, he became part of a system that was barely different from slavery and where the dream of paradise quickly proved to be a false one.

Proud after international recognition The Septimius Awards award not only marks international recognition but also emotional satisfaction for the creators. “It’s incredible to be able to represent our Surinamese, Hindustani, and Dutch heritage on an international stage,” said Feroz Amirkhan. “This award shows that our story and our community are finally getting the recognition they deserve.”

Co-creator Pavan Marhé also expressed his pride: “We were on stage among big names from Hollywood, and yet our story was heard and awarded. This shows how important it is to keep our history alive and share it.”

More than a film: a vibrant movement The impact of Vals Paradijs extends beyond the award. In the Netherlands, the documentary has already made waves: More than 150,000 people watched it via NPO 2. The film sold out Pathé cinemas and special screenings, including at AFAS Live The documentary was viewed over a million times online Vals Paradijs thus became a true social phenomenon and a significant conversation starter within and beyond the Surinamese and Hindustani communities.

Director Patrick Bisschops played a crucial creative role in the success of Vals Paradijs. With his cinematographic approach and eye for detail, he gave the story not only emotional depth but also visual power. His direction helped interweave the personal stories with historical context, making the documentary accessible and moving for a wide audience.

Thanks to his involvement, the often hidden past was given a platform that not only informs the audience but also deeply moves them. A Monument to a Hidden Past With its Septimius Awards win, Vals Paradijs is not only an award-winning documentary but also a symbolic monument to a forgotten history. The project demonstrates the importance of continuing to tell hidden stories and the power of finally hearing them globally.

The filmmakers are now looking ahead to new screenings, educational initiatives, and the potential for an international sequel. One thing is certain: Vals Paradijs has opened the door for a broader recognition of Hindustani and Surinamese histories and that's just the beginning.