Hyderabad filmmaker’s documentary follows perilous climb of Reo Purgyil

REO: The Dangerous Peak, directed by 19-year-old Hyderabad filmmaker Shourya SreeKere, follows 21-year-old mountaineer Yashwanth Naik’s attempt to climb 6,816-metre Reo Purgyil, highlighting the mountain’s extreme weather, avalanche risks and the resilience required for the expedition.

Hyderabad: At 6,816 metres, Reo Purgyil is the highest and one of the least-attempted peaks in Himachal Pradesh. Located in the remote Kinnaur-Tibet region, the mountain remains largely unexplored due to border restrictions and difficult access.

Known as a dangerous peak, Reo Purgyil is infamous for its unpredictable weather, steep ice walls and high avalanche risk, making it a technically demanding climb even for experienced mountaineers. Since its first ascent in 1971 by a small Indo-Tibetan Border Police team, very few expeditions have attempted the peak, adding to its mystery, isolation and fearsome reputation.

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These challenges form the backdrop of REO: The Dangerous Peak, a short documentary that follows 21-year-old mountaineer Yashwanth Naik and his attempt to climb the formidable peak.

The film traces Naik’s journey from preparation to the climb, documenting the difficulties he encounters, including freezing temperatures, unpredictable weather conditions and moments of fear and doubt. It also explores the physical and mental strength required to undertake such a challenging expedition at a young age.

Beyond the expedition, the documentary conveys a message to young dreamers: “Keep trying and inspire someone through your journey. That’s the life circle.” The film presents a story of effort, resilience and the courage to pursue difficult goals.

Directed by 19-year-old Hyderabad-based actor, filmmaker and visual storyteller Shourya SreeKere, REO: The Dangerous Peak marks his directorial debut in non-fiction. He earlier appeared as Sushil Kumar Sen in Khudiram Bose (2022), which was officially selected for the 53rd International Film Festival of India in Goa.

The documentary was officially selected for the Dada Saheb Phalke International Film Festival 2026 and the International Documentary and Short Film Festival of Kerala 2026.

Most members of the project team are under 25. Led by SreeKere, the young team aims to take independent cinema to a global audience through raw visuals and grounded storytelling.

The documentary’s sneak peak was released on September 10.