Ancient Sheep Breed and ‘Ecosystem Guardian’ Under Threat

Sep 15

Synopsis

70-year-old shepherd Mura tends to the endangered Patanwadi sheep, a native breed threatened by climate change and declining demand for indigenous wool. As pastoral livelihoods struggle, new initiatives are creating markets for desi wool, offering hope for shepherd communities and the survival of traditional breeds.

From the filmmaker

I first read about the declining Patanwadi sheep breed and decided to visit Kutch myself. That’s where I met Mura Kaka and his herd. He told me how climate change and the lack of interest in indigenous wool were affecting his traditional way of life. As a filmmaker, I felt this was a story that needed to be seen and heard. I hope this film encourages people to support local crafts and handicrafts, and the artisans and shepherds who keep these traditional practices alive.