Journey to the Roof of the World: New Documentary Follows Sisters on a Risky Hunt for ‘Himalayan Gold’

A new documentary film captures a profound family journey in the high Himalayas. Goodbye Sisters follows two young Nepali women on a perilous final trip to their mountain home. The film premieres at the Tallinn Black Nights Film Festival.The sisters aim to harvest a rare and valuable fungus known as yarsagumba. This “Himalayan gold” could fund one sister’s dream of studying abroad. Their story explores sacrifice, family bonds, and the high cost of a better future.

The Precious Fungus Fueling Dreams and Risk

Yarsagumba is a unique caterpillar fungus found above 5,000 meters. It is highly prized in traditional medicine. According to The Hollywood Reporter, it can be worth more than gold by weight locally.Harvesting it is the primary annual income for many remote families. Every year, more people flock to the mountains seeking it. This leads to dangerous conditions and sometimes fatal accidents.For 21-year-old Jamuna and her sister Anmuna, it represents hope. Selling their harvest could finance Jamuna’s planned studies in Japan. This potential escape from poverty drives their arduous trek.

A Universal Story of Sacrifice and Goodbye

Director Alexander Murphy focuses on the human story, not just the fungus. He spent years building trust with Jamuna before filming. The resulting documentary is an intimate portrait of a family’s emotional struggle.The film highlights the moment of departure often missed in immigration stories. It shows the painful goodbyes and uncertain returns. Jamuna tells her parents she may not come back for seven or eight years.Murphy wanted the sisters to feel properly represented. He involved Jamuna closely in the filmmaking process. The harsh, breathtaking Himalayan landscape itself becomes a central character in their journey.

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Goodbye Sisters presents a powerful, cinematic look at the universal drive for a better life, framed by a dangerous quest for ‘Himalayan gold’ and the immense personal cost it entails.

Info at your fingertips

What is yarsagumba?

Yarsagumba is a rare hybrid of a caterpillar and a fungus. It grows only at high altitudes in the Himalayas. It is highly valued in traditional medicine and can be a crucial income source.

Where can I watch ‘Goodbye Sisters’?

The film is currently premiering on the international festival circuit. Its world premiere is at the Tallinn Black Nights Film Festival. Wider distribution plans following the festival are not yet announced.

What happened to the sisters after filming?

The documentary captures their journey as Jamuna prepares to leave for Japan. Their current status is not detailed in available reports. The director plans to return to their village to screen the finished film for them.

What were the filming conditions like?

The crew filmed at altitudes around 5,000 meters in unpredictable weather. Director Alexander Murphy reported losing seven kilograms during the five-week shoot. They often trekked for over 15 hours to capture specific scenes.

What is the main theme of the documentary?

The film centers on the sacrifice behind immigration and seeking opportunity. It focuses on the emotional weight of leaving home without a guaranteed return. Family bonds and resilience are its core emotional drivers.