Gandras - Gandras:Land of the White Stork depicts what remains of rural life in two post-Soviet countries where only birds can freely cross the border.
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\nThe border between Belarus and Lithuania used to be just a thin, insignificant line on a map. The bonds of community life were strong despite the national diversity. Families often intermarried, creating a common social identity. With the erection of the European external border between Lithuania and Belarus in 2004, many of these border villages were divided. Families were torn apart. Spouses, siblings and close friends now live on the other side of the world, although their homes are only a few meters across the border.
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\nEvery year, white storks (the national bird of Belarus and Lithuania) herald the arrival of spring by crossing the Belarusian-Lithuanian border to nest and raise their young. Villagers hope that a family of storks will nest nearby, bringing new life and harmony to the region. Those who have remained in the villages along the Lithuanian border remember the "good old days" when the borders were open and Soviet societies were still in operation. They remember a time when wedding music and the sounds of children filled the air. They yearn for renewal.
