October 09, 2006	Monday	Ramazan 15, 1427

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ISLAMABAD, Oct 8: When the mountains moved on October 8 2005, the world saw the unshakable strength of humanity. In a world bitterly divided, rose a sense of brotherhood defying boundaries of the entire world and humanity became the religion.

The 30 minutes documentary film titled “When the Mountains Moved: Survival and Friendship in the 2005 Earthquake, was screened by The Asia Foundation. It commemorated the bond of humanity, and showed how people from different worlds, speaking different languages and worshipping different gods brought out the best in humanity.

The documentary took a unique look at how interactions, particularly between ordinary Pakistanis and Americans, in the wake of the devastating earthquake had shaped their perceptions of each other.

The documentary showcased stories of personal sacrifice and courage that helped build bridges of understanding, love and friendship between the peoples of the two countries at one of the most challenging times in their histories.

The film highlighted how international aid, development efforts and positive personal interactions could help trump personal prejudices, differences and misconceptions.

The movie began with images of how the earth shook with such intensity that nothing was left standing and in less than 60 seconds, 12,000 square miles of paradise was turned into hell.

As news of the devastation spread, aid began pouring in and so did international volunteers, leaving their families and homes behind and changing long-held perceptions. Americans were welcomed and found love in regions listed as no-go zones in travel advisories and negative media reporting.

Challenge was also to get out of the American bubble and see the world, said one interviewee in the documentary.

Pakistanis who saw Americans as bad for obvious reasons also saw them bring food and medicines and other supplies.

“If only they knew who we Americans really are, all hostility would end. When people know you want to help them, you don’t need to say anything else,” said another interviewee. “We will never forget the warmth and the kindness extended to us by the Pakistanis. They have won our hearts. We take back with us stories of friendship and courage,” she said.

The documentary showed Todd, who left his family behind in America, and come out to help people in their sufferings. He fell in love with the people of Kashmir. He was sorry that it took a devastating earthquake to find out about the wonderful people he had come across in Kashmir.