Sash Simpson’s life story is one of resilience and transformation. Abandoned as a young boy on the streets of Chennai, India, Sash survived by eating out of garbage bins before being adopted by a Canadian woman, Sandra Simpson. His journey from street child to celebrated chef in Canada is now the focus of the documentary “Born Hungry.”
Directed by Barry Avrich, “Born Hungry” follows Sash as he returns to India to search for his lost family and reconnect with his cultural roots. The film had its premiere at Hot Docs on April 26. This documentary is a raw and heartfelt look at identity, heritage, and the power of family.
Background of Sash Simpson
Sash Simpson’s early life was marked by hardship and uncertainty. As a young boy in Chennai, India, he was abandoned and left to fend for himself on the streets. Sash survived by scavenging food from garbage bins and sleeping in theatres and train stations. His future seemed bleak until Sandra Simpson, a Canadian woman running an orphanage in India, discovered him.
Sandra had already adopted 31 children from various challenging backgrounds around the world, and she saw potential in Sash. She brought him to Canada, providing him with a new home and a chance at a better life. This adoption was a turning point for Sash, who eventually grew up to become a renowned chef, celebrated for his culinary skills and his inspirational life story.
Sash’s rise in the culinary world began with humble beginnings in Canada, where he honed his skills and worked his way up in the restaurant industry. His dedication and passion for cooking led him to open his own successful restaurant, where he became known for his unique blend of Indian and Canadian cuisine. Despite his success, Sash always felt a deep connection to his roots and a longing to understand his past. “Born Hungry” captures this compelling narrative, focusing on Sash’s emotional journey back to India to find his biological family and rediscover his heritage.
Creation of “Born Hungry”
The inception of “Born Hungry” began when filmmaker Barry Avrich was introduced to Sash Simpson by Jay Hennick, a mutual friend and producer. Jay, who had previously co-produced the art-fraud documentary “Made You Look” with Avrich, was impressed by Sash’s story and encouraged Barry to explore it further.
Barry Avrich, known for his knack for uncovering compelling narratives, was immediately intrigued. Upon meeting Sash and hearing his story firsthand, Avrich was convinced that it had all the elements of a powerful documentary. He was particularly drawn to the dual narrative of Sash’s journey and the incredible story of his adoptive mother, Sandra Simpson.
Avrich knew that the documentary had to capture both Sash’s life in Canada and his emotional return to India. However, the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic posed significant challenges. The team had initially planned to travel to India to film, but with travel restrictions in place, they had to adapt their plans. Despite these hurdles, they managed to film as much as possible while waiting for the situation to improve.
One of the emotional moments in the production was capturing Sandra Simpson on film just eight weeks before she passed away. Her story, intertwined with Sash’s, added a profound layer to the documentary.
Sash himself had reservations about whether his life story could fill an entire feature-length documentary. He repeatedly expressed doubts to Barry, insisting that there might only be enough content for a short film. However, Avrich’s vision and belief in the narrative’s depth prevailed. He saw Sash’s story as one of multiple rebirths: from his early life in India to his new beginnings in Canada, his rise as a chef, and finally, his return to India.
Filming and Challenges
Once it was safe to travel, the crew finally embarked on their journey to India. The filming schedule was intense, with days starting at sunrise and continuing until sunset. They filmed in bustling markets, on crowded streets, and in various locations that were significant to Sash’s past. This immersive approach allowed them to capture the vibrant, chaotic energy of Chennai and the emotional weight of Sash’s return.
The trip was not just a logistical challenge but also an emotional rollercoaster. Sash revisited the places where he had once struggled to survive. The team had to navigate the complexities of filming in a foreign country, dealing with large crowds, and ensuring the safety and security of their equipment and crew.
One particularly challenging moment was filming in the crowded streets of Chennai. The sheer volume of people made it difficult to keep track of the crew and equipment. At times, Sash even lost sight of the cameraman amidst the sea of humanity.
The documentary also features Sash’s interactions with renowned Indian chefs, adding a culinary dimension to the narrative. Sash’s exploration of new spices and recipes, and his cooking sessions with chefs like Thomas Zacharias and Shipra Khanna, highlighted his reconnection with his cultural roots.
Key Moments in the Film
“Born Hungry” is filled with key moments that not only highlight Sash Simpson’s personal journey but also underscore the broader themes of identity, resilience, and cultural heritage.
Revisiting the Streets of Chennai
One of the most powerful sequences in the documentary is Sash’s return to the streets of Chennai. Here, he revisits the places where he once lived as a homeless child. The raw emotion on Sash’s face as he walks through these familiar yet distant places is palpable, providing a stark contrast between his past struggles and his present success.
The Orphanage Visit
A highlight of “Born Hungry” is Sash’s visit to the orphanage that changed his life. The emotional intensity peaks as Sash walks into the orphanage and is overwhelmed by memories. This scene captures his vulnerability and gratitude, offering a poignant reminder of the pivotal moment when Sandra Simpson rescued him.
Culinary Explorations
Sash’s journey in India also includes a rich culinary exploration. The documentary’s vibrant and flavorful dimension is enhanced by scenes of Sash cooking with renowned Indian chefs, such as Thomas Zacharias and Shipra Khanna.
Emotional Reunions and Discoveries
Throughout the documentary, there are several emotional reunions and discoveries. Whether it’s reconnecting with old friends or uncovering new details about his past, these moments are filled with raw emotion. One particularly touching scene involves Sash meeting individuals who knew his family or who helped him during his time on the streets. These interactions bring a sense of closure and fulfillment to Sash’s quest.
Sandra Simpson’s Legacy
Sandra Simpson’s presence in the film, despite her passing, is a significant element. The interviews and footage of Sandra provide a heartfelt tribute to her unwavering dedication and love. Her story runs parallel to Sash’s, emphasizing the profound impact she had on his life.
The Culinary Safari
The documentary also showcases Sash’s culinary journey across India. From street food to gourmet dishes, Sash explores the diverse flavours of Indian cuisine. These scenes are visually rich and engaging, providing a sensory experience for the viewers.
Finding Himself
One of the overarching themes of “Born Hungry” is Sash’s journey of self-discovery. The documentary beautifully captures how, through his quest to find his biological family, Sash ultimately finds himself.
Final Thoughts
“Born Hungry” is an inspiring and powerful documentary that captures the essence of Sash Simpson’s extraordinary journey. It is a story of survival, resilience, and the enduring strength of the human spirit. The film’s exploration of identity and cultural heritage offers a reminder of the importance of knowing where we come from and the impact it has on our lives.