Cultivating Resilience Retreats

Directed, shot, edited by Darshan Gajjar

This project is deeply personal to me. I was invited to spend three days with a group of men I had never met before, at a retreat designed to create a safe space for honest conversations around mental health, personal struggles, and self-expression—without pressure or judgement.

When I arrived, I had no idea what the story would be. That uncertainty is something I love about documentary filmmaking—allowing the narrative to reveal itself in real time, shaped by the people and the moments you encounter. Over the course of the retreat, I wasn’t just an observer—I became a participant. By joining in, I built genuine trust with the group, which allowed me to capture their experiences with honesty, empathy, and respect, while keeping the most sensitive details confidential.

Sparks flying from a burning piece of wood in the dark.
A group of men standing outdoors in a wooded area, appear to be participating in a meditation or mindfulness session, with one man speaking or leading the group.
Group of diverse people outdoors smiling and giving high-fives in celebration.
Four men are in a room, one is on another's back in a playful piggyback pose. One man is seated on the left, clapping, another man on the far right is sitting with his hands in his pockets. In the background, a woman is preparing food in the kitchen
Group of people giving a high five together outdoors in a forested area.
A hand touching green moss on a fallen log in a forest.
Person sitting near a campfire holding a marshmallow on a stick, with flames illuminating the scene.
Group of people dancing and having fun in a forest clearing during daytime.
A group of diverse people huddled together outdoors, with their arms around each other, in a moment of unity and prayer.