The Boy Who Plays on the Buddhas of Bamiyan

Running time: N/A

In March 2001, against international protests and appeals, the ruling Taliban destroyed Afghanistan's foremost tourist attraction, the 1600-year-old Buddhas of Bamiyan. Carved out of a high stretch of cliff, the statues were considered to be the largest and most remarkable representations of the Buddha anywhere in the world.Surrounded by hundreds of open caves once used for worship, the ruins are now home to hundreds of refugees from Afghanistan's 25 years of war. Amongst them shines eight-year-old Mir Hussain, a bright, energetic, smiling jokester of a boy who, alongside his family and friends, attempts to survive in a country turned upside down. Mir is a delightful tour guide through the ancient caves, burnt-out town bazaar and his daily routine of seeking entertainment with his friends. Everyone they meet has a story to tell about life in Afghanistan, including an ex-Taliban recruit who had joined ranks in order to wear a warmer turban. The Boy who Plays on the Buddhas of Bamiyan perfectly captures the joys and innocence of childhood and the sheer determination it takes to face the brutal conditions of poverty and starvation, political uncertainty and the realities of refugee life in an inhospitable terrain. Meredith Sherter Benston MAVERICK COMPETITION