To Kill a Tiger 2023

In a quaint village situated in Jharkhand, India, Ranjit awakens one day to discover that his 13-year-old daughter has yet to return from a family wedding. As the hours tick by, phone calls are made and a frantic search begins, only to conclude in a chilling manner when she stumbles home, deeply shaken. It soon comes to light that she has suffered a horrific assault in the woods at the hands of three men, individuals who are shockingly connected to the family. Ranjit and his wife report the crime to the police, leading to the swift arrest of the assailants.

However, the relief of having the culprits apprehended is fleeting. The village leaders and the local community immediately rally against Ranjit, exerting pressure on him to withdraw the charges. They propose a disturbing “solution”: that the girl should marry one of her rapists, a misguided attempt to restore both her honor and that of the community. Defying this oppressive tradition, Ranjit embarks on a complicated and dangerous journey, braving the convoluted Indian legal system and the increasing threats from his own community.

To Kill a Tiger is a poignant, narrative-driven documentary that captures Ranjit’s relentless fight for justice for his daughter. In a country where a rape is reported every 20 minutes, and conviction rates hover below 30 percent, Ranjit’s resolve to stand by his daughter marks a radical departure from societal norms. His courageous stance attracts the attention of the Srijan Foundation, a non-governmental organization focused on educating men and boys about women’s rights. They see Ranjit as a beacon of hope, positioning him as a symbol of change and inspiration for other men.

As Ranjit garners support from the NGO, along with the scrutiny of a documentary crew, the backlash from the villagers intensifies. The looming trial not only threatens his family’s safety but also exacerbates mounting debts and social isolation. Ranjit’s façade of strength begins to waver under the escalating pressure, putting the entire pursuit of justice at risk.

With an intimate portrayal that delves into every aspect of the struggle, To Kill a Tiger chronicles the deeply emotional journey of an ordinary man caught in extraordinary circumstances. Ranjit’s unwavering love for his daughter ignites a social confrontation that promises to echo within the community for years to come.