Pavan Marhé Makes History with “Vals Paradijs” at the Septimius Awards

First Surinamese-Dutch Documentary Wins Prestigious International Film Award

A groundbreaking moment in Dutch and Surinamese film history was written last at the iconic Pathé Tuschinski Theatre, as the documentary “Vals Paradijs” (False Paradise) won the Best Short Documentary award at the internationally renowned Septimius Awards.

Co-created by Pavan Marhé, alongside producer Feroz Amirkhan and director Patrick Bisschops, this marks the first time a Surinamese-Dutch documentary has received such an international honor, making it a landmark achievement for Dutch Hindustani representation in global cinema.

Unveiling a Forgotten History

“Vals Paradijs” confronts an often overlooked chapter of Suriname’s colonial past , the era of indentured labor that followed the abolition of slavery in 1873. While freedom was officially granted, exploitation simply changed form. Under deceptive contracts, thousands of Indian men and women were brought to Suriname with promises of a better life, promises that quickly dissolved into harsh labor, systemic injustice, and cultural erasure.

Through deeply personal storytelling, Marhé and Amirkhan embark on a quest to retrace their ancestral roots, shining light on the experiences of those who lived through this painful period. Among the stories uncovered is that of Fakirchand Rajvanshi, a young man lured from India under the illusion of paradise, only to face a reality scarcely different from slavery.

A Moment of Global Recognition

Receiving the Septimius Award is not only a professional milestone but a deeply emotional victory for the filmmakers.

“It’s incredible to be able to represent our Surinamese, Hindustani, and Dutch heritage on an international stage,” said Pavan Marhe.

“This award shows that our story and our community are finally getting the recognition they deserve.”

Pavan Marhé also reflected on the historic moment:

“We stood on stage among names from Hollywood and yet, our story was heard, seen, and honored. It shows how powerful it is to give voice to untold histories and to keep them alive for future generations.”

More Than a Film A Cultural Movement

The success of “Vals Paradijs” goes far beyond awards. In the Netherlands, the documentary sparked a national conversation, with over 150,000 viewers tuning in via NPO 2, sold-out screenings at Pathé cinemas, and special showings at major venues like AFAS Live.

Online, the film was viewed more than one million times, confirming its role as a social and cultural phenomenon.

At the heart of the documentary’s impact is director Patrick Bisschops, whose sensitive and powerful direction brought emotional weight and visual elegance to the screen. His ability to interweave personal stories with broader historical narratives made the documentary accessible, educational, and emotionally resonant.

A Monument to a Silenced Past

“Vals Paradijs” now stands as more than an award winning film it is a monument to a silenced history. It honors the voices that were long ignored and ensures that their experiences are no longer left in the shadows.

With the international recognition now secured, the creators are looking ahead to new screenings, educational programs, and the potential development of an international sequel.

The Beginning of Global Recognition for Hindustani Stories

The story of “Vals Paradijs” is only just beginning. For Pavan Marhé, Feroz Amirkhan, and their creative team, this moment proves that hidden histories matter and the world is ready to hear them.

This is not just a win for a film. It’s a win for a people, for truth, and for every story still waiting to be told.