From the glutinous rice cakes of the Teochew people in the Chinese mainland to the sugarcane fields of India and the cocoa plantations of Côte d’Ivoire, the documentary series “Sweet Planet” explores how the creation of sweet foods brings security and satisfaction to communities around the world. This journey reveals that behind every sweet delight lies hard work and dedication.
In Chaoshan, located in the Chinese mainland, a family of artisans rises before dawn and works late into the night to produce glutinous rice cakes. These cakes are more than just a treat; they are a unique cultural tradition cherished by the local community. The meticulous process of crafting each cake reflects a deep respect for tradition and a commitment to preserving cultural heritage.
Meanwhile, in India, thousands of farmers, predominantly women, labor tirelessly in the sugarcane fields. Their efforts supply the sugar factories that sweeten lives across the nation. The stories of these women highlight the essential role they play in sustaining the sugar industry and supporting their families.
In Côte d’Ivoire, a dedicated chocolate manufacturer is striving to create a market for his products while ensuring that local cocoa growers receive fair compensation for their hard work. His mission underscores the importance of ethical practices in the global chocolate industry and the impact that fair trade can have on communities.
“Sweet Planet” showcases how the bitterness of life’s challenges makes the sweetness of achievements all the more precious. Through intimate storytelling, the series celebrates the human spirit and the universal pursuit of happiness through simple pleasures.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
