The global premiere of ‘All I Want for Christmas’, a poignant travel documentary produced by Travelxp, took place last evening at the Embassy of Finland in New Delhi. Directed by national award-winning filmmaker Kamakhya Narayan Singh, the 42-minute documentary tells the compelling story of Anastasia, a young Ukrainian refugee, and her mother as they navigate the trials of displacement.
Hosted in collaboration with the embassies of Finland, Ukraine, Norway, SIFFCY, and the Smile Foundation, the premiere brought together diplomats, journalists, and changemakers for an evening of emotional storytelling. The event highlighted the resilience of the human spirit and the enduring magic of Christmas. At its heart, the documentary follows Anastasia and her mother, who are uprooted from their home due to the conflict in Ukraine. Seeking a moment of joy amidst their upheaval, Anastasia’s mother plans a journey to Lapland in Finland—a magical winter wonderland where childhood dreams of meeting Santa come alive. From thrilling dog-sled rides across snow-laden landscapes to plunging into the icy waters of Kemi, their journey is more than just a festive getaway—it becomes a testament to hope, love, and the enduring strength of family bonds.
An Evening of Reflection and Solidarity
The audience, which included dignitaries, diplomats, and advocates, was visibly moved by the documentary’s heartfelt narrative. Reflecting on the film, Ambassador Dr. Oleksandr Polishchuk of Ukraine remarked, “We are deeply grateful to Travelxp and the filmmakers for bringing this powerful story to life. This film captures the resilience of families displaced by conflict and reminds us of the importance of peace, safety, and home—fundamental rights for every child. Ukraine remains committed to initiatives like Bring Kids Back UA, ensuring children have a future filled with hope and dignity. We long for a peaceful Ukraine, where every family can once again celebrate Christmas with joy instead of fear.”
Adding to the sentiment, Mr. Kimmo Lähdevirta, the Finnish Ambassador to India, said, “‘All I Want for Christmas’ highlights not only the warmth and spirit of Christmas but also the resilience and dreams of Ukrainian refugees. This documentary reflects our collective commitment to solidarity, compassion, and the hope for a brighter future for all.”
May-Elin Stener, Ambassador of Norway to India, shared her thoughts, stating, “Anastasia and Ksenia’s journey resonates deeply. The documentary encapsulates love, hope, and the power of human connection. Norway has welcomed over 85,000 Ukrainian refugees, and we remain steadfast in our support for their futures. Let us hold onto hope for a world where peace and joy prevail.”
Speaking on the inspiration behind the project, Nisha Chothani, co-founder of Travelxp and producer of the show, shared, “‘All I Want for Christmas’ represents a shift in our approach to travel storytelling. While showcasing destinations remains a central part of Travelxp, we’ve embraced the power of human stories that create deeper emotional connections. This documentary is about more than just travel—it’s about resilience, love, and the pursuit of happiness, even in the darkest times.”
A Universal Message of Hope
‘All I Want for Christmas’ is more than a travel documentary—it is a moving exploration of the small joys and shared human experiences that bring hope even in the face of adversity. Anastasia’s journey, told against the stunning backdrop of Lapland, serves as a reminder of the resilience and love that bind families together. Available on Travelxp’s digital platform, the documentary delivers a heartwarming message of courage, hope, and the universal desire for a brighter tomorrow. It leaves viewers with a renewed appreciation for the magic of Christmas and the enduring power of human connection.
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