Our Story
We are motivated by the profound belief that the unique experiences of the Indigenous Amazonian and Andean worlds can awaken a greater consciousness and universal awareness. In these realms, we find the potential to rekindle humanity’s connection to its historical roots in relation to the vast cosmos and our precious Earth. Our foundation is firmly rooted in a profound respect for diversity and the fostering of mutual understanding, as we champion transformation through the mediums of culture, lived experiences, and the art of cinema.
Our primary objective is to shed light upon the vibrant life, rich history, intricate cosmovision, and cherished customs of the upper Andean and Amazonian villages through the captivating narratives and cinematography. In our series of films, each village stewards the transmission of ancestral wisdom, and as viewers immerse themselves in these cinematic journeys, they witness these distinct ways of life and their nuanced manifestations in varying contexts.
It is through these films that audiences will encounter the unfiltered realities of these villages. We endeavor to spotlight their deeply ingrained values, cultural artifacts, languages, stories of resilience, their articulations of social and earthly coexistence, and the profound worldviews that have the potential to enrich what we often refer to as “modern societies.”
We firmly believe that communication and cinematography serve as peaceful instruments of transformation, opening doors to a profound awareness of the indigenous cultures residing within the Andes and the Amazon. Listening to the voices of these cultures and delving into their philosophy of reverence and respect for the land is paramount for the restoration of environmental equilibrium in our contemporary world. Andes Imagen, Photo, and the Ayni Institute stand as a bridge between different cultures, villages, and generations, functioning as a conduit for the reclamation and preservation of traditional and ancestral wisdom, fostering unity and understanding among us all.
The Filmmakers
Alejandrina Calancha Monge, a seasoned indigenous radio host and producer from Cusco, Peru, has spent three decades in journalism and communications. Raised by migrant farmers, her journey led her to university, where she began her career in 1990. She later co-founded “Rimayninchis,” a groundbreaking Quechua radio program that defied traditional norms, highlighting indigenous perspectives. Concurrently, Alejandrina joined her husband José Huamán Turpo in producing the “Mysteries of the Andes” documentary series, bridging indigenous wisdom from many communities. Their approach is marked by immersion, empathy, and enduring relationships, making Alejandrina a dedicated advocate for indigenous culture and voices.
Jose Huaman Turpo, co-founder and director of “Mysteries of the Andes,” is a seasoned indigenous filmmaker from Cusco, Peru, with three decades of experience. Initially, a successful photographer and videographer in the international press, he was profoundly impacted by global inequalities and power dynamics. Motivated by a desire to document and preserve indigenous knowledge, Jose transitioned into documentary filmmaking. His “Mysteries of the Andes” series explores memory, oral history, and cultural imagination, empowering indigenous voices. He and collaborator Alejandrina prioritize human value, aiming to revitalize and share indigenous wisdom, fostering a global reconnection with humanity’s roots.