DARKHAN

Russia, 2025 / 38 min
Director: Vladimir Ponomarev
12+

In the southwest of the Republic of Buryatia, in the mountains of the Eastern
Sayan, lies the ulus (village) with the interesting name of Myla. Life here is a
constant struggle. Starting with the basic heating of homes, this struggle continues
in every aspect of existence in this small ethnic Khamnigan ulus. How do creative
pursuits, an inquisitive mind, and Darhan’s skillful hands help the entire ulus
survive the extremely harsh conditions of Zakamna? What philosophy allows
Dondok Dorzhievich to reconcile what at first glance seems incompatible — when
a Darhan (blacksmith/shaman) crafts Buddhist ritual objects?