The Embassy of Finland in New Delhi recently hosted the global premiere of ‘All I Want for Christmas,’ a poignant travel documentary produced by Travelxp. Directed by the National Award-winning filmmaker Kamakhya Narayan Singh, the film captivated audiences with its breathtaking visuals and powerful narrative. The premiere was organized in collaboration with the embassies of Finland, Ukraine, Norway, the Smile Foundation, and Smile International Film Festival for Children and Youth (SIFFCY).
Shot against the idyllic backdrop of Finland’s Lapland, ‘All I Want for Christmas’ seamlessly weaves the magic of the season with a deeply moving tale of resilience. At the heart of the 42-minute documentary is Anastasia, a young Ukrainian refugee, and her mother, Ksenia. Displaced by conflict, the duo embarks on a transformative journey to Lapland, a winter wonderland synonymous with Christmas cheer. This trip, filled with unique experiences such as dog sledding through pristine snow and swimming in the icy waters of Kemi, is more than just a holiday; it’s a testament to the indomitable human spirit and the healing power of shared moments.
Anastasia’s story highlights the trials of displacement and the enduring hope of reclaiming joy amidst adversity. Through her eyes, viewers experience the stark realities faced by millions of refugees worldwide while also witnessing the simple joys that sustain them—the warmth of family, the promise of a brighter future, and the universal magic of Christmas. The film’s narrative underscores the importance of hope, resilience, and human connection, making it a profound and timely tale.
The premiere brought together an eclectic audience of diplomats, journalists, and changemakers, all moved by the story’s emotional depth. Dr. Oleksandr Polishchuk, the Ambassador of Ukraine to India, expressed heartfelt gratitude to the filmmakers and partners involved in the project. Reflecting on the film’s impact, he said, “We are deeply grateful to Travelxp for bringing this powerful story to life. The film reminds us of the profound impact of conflict, especially on children, who deserve peace, safety, and a loving home.”
Dr. Polishchuk also took the opportunity to highlight Ukraine’s ‘Bring Kids Back UA’ initiative, which aims to restore hope and dignity to displaced children. “Like Anastasia, Ukrainian children deserve to celebrate Christmas with their families in a peaceful Ukraine, where joy and warmth replace fear and loss,” he remarked, emphasizing the resilience of the Ukrainian people.
Kimmo Lähdevirta, the Ambassador of Finland to India, echoed these sentiments, praising the documentary for its powerful message. “’All I Want for Christmas’ highlights not just the spirit of Christmas but also the resilience, hopes, and dreams of refugees from Ukraine. It reflects our shared commitment to solidarity, compassion, and the belief in a brighter future for everyone.”
Similarly, May-Elin Stener, the Ambassador of Norway, shared her reflections on the documentary’s universal themes of love, family, and hope. “Anastasia and Ksenia’s journey inspires us all. Norway remains steadfast in its support for Ukraine, hosting over 85,000 refugees and working towards a future where peace and joy prevail for all,” she said.
Director Kamakhya Narayan Singh, known for his deeply humanistic and honest storytelling in films such as ‘Bhor’ and ‘Justice Delayed but Delivered,’ described the project as a deeply personal journey. “I have learned a lot during my countless interactions with Nisha (Chothani) ma’am over the last 17 years. Her invaluable inputs and constant guidance have allowed me to discover myself as a storyteller,” he shared, expressing gratitude to the producer and co-founder of Travelxp.
For Chothani, the documentary represents a new chapter in Travelxp’s journey as a content creator. “’All I Want for Christmas’ signifies the evolution of travel storytelling at Travelxp. While showcasing destinations remains central to our work, we have embraced the power of human stories to create deeper connections,” she explained.
The premiere was more than just a film screening; it was an evening of shared emotions, cross-cultural solidarity, and collective hope. Anastasia’s journey serves as a universal reminder of the resilience of the human spirit. Her story, though born of adversity, is a testament to the power of small joys and the unwavering strength of familial bonds. As viewers follow her through the magical landscapes of Finland, they are reminded of the simple yet profound moments that bring hope and healing.
The film’s release comes at a time when global attention is focused on the plight of refugees and the impact of displacement on vulnerable populations, particularly children. By choosing to tell Anastasia’s story, Travelxp and its collaborators have not only highlighted the resilience of those affected by conflict but also the importance of global solidarity in addressing such challenges.
‘All I Want for Christmas’ is now available for streaming on Travelxp’s digital platform. The documentary is more than just a travelogue; it is a heartwarming story of courage, love, and the universal desire for a brighter tomorrow. With its breathtaking visuals and deeply moving narrative, the film promises to leave an indelible mark on audiences worldwide.
As the world grapples with the ongoing challenges of displacement and conflict, ‘All I Want for Christmas’ serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of empathy, resilience, and hope. Through the lens of Anastasia’s journey, viewers are encouraged to look beyond borders and differences, embracing the shared humanity that unites us all.
The global premiere of ‘All I Want for Christmas’ was not just an event but an experience—one that resonated deeply with all who attended. It stands as a testament to the transformative power of storytelling and the enduring strength of the human spirit. In the words of Anastasia, it is the small joys that keep hope alive, even in the face of adversity.