Paimîye

Paimîye

In the land of many waters, the Victoria Amazonica, or Paimîye', as it is called in the Macushi language, is Guyana’s national flower. It is a remarkable botanical wonder with deep cultural, historical, and environmental importance. This documentary investigates the importance of the Victoria Amazonica to Guyana.

We take viewers deep into the lush Rupununi region of Guyana, where the flower is protected, to the few sightings along Guyana’s coastland region, to Kew Gardens in the United Kingdom, showcasing the resilience of the Water Lily in its various habitats. From its striking flowers to its hidden root systems, the film reveals how the plant supports wildlife, inspires folklore, and relies on ongoing conservation practices for its survival. The film also tackles the common confusion in Guyana between the Water Lily and the Lotus, two beloved aquatic species in the country. Through interviews with indigenous experts, scientists and conservationists, the documentary maps the story, survival and significance of Paimîye.