Panaji:  Inviting Indian filmmakers to visit Afghanistan and help the war-ravaged country make some good movies, a leading actress said Afghan films have been portraying the harsh realities of women being subjected to torture.

"It is unbelievable that such atrocities could actually happen. But, it did take place in my country," Afghan actress Khatira Yousufi said at the third South Asian Film Festival here.

The actress said Afghanistan had much more to offer in terms of its rich culture and tradition. "India has the technological expertise. But, there are stories in our land as well," she added.

"Afghanistan needs your help and support. Come to Afghanistan," she said to Indian filmmakers.

She said her country was ready for a new life and women want to be part of the new world.

Films from Afghanistan being screened at the SAFF portray women s sufferings in the war-ravaged country during the Taliban rule.

The opening film was "Osama" which has been critically acclaimed at prestigious film festivals across the world.

"Osama" is about a 12-year-old Afghan girl and her mother who lose their jobs when the Taliban closes the hospital they work in. The Taliban had also forbidden women to leave their homes without a male companion.

With her husband and brother killed in the civil war, the woman is left with no other option but to disguise her daughter as a boy named Osama.

Osama manages to secure a job at a local tea shop but "his" effeminate ways quickly arouse suspicion among the other boys.

Source : PTI