In memory of a folklorist
G.S. PAUL
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A documentary on Chummar Choondal throws light on his invaluable contributions in promoting folk art forms.
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SCHOLAR WITH A RUSTIC TOUCH: Ravi Anthikad as Chummar Choondal in `Naadodi.'
Folklorists and admirers of Chummar Choondal gathered recently at St. Mary's College auditorium, Thrissur, for the preview of a documentary on the late veteran. Produced by Dr. Chummar Choondal Smaraka Folklore Centre, the 20-minute video film titled `Naadodi,' appeared a fitting memorial to the avant-garde folklorist who passed away in 1994.
A pioneer
Widely hailed as the pioneer folklorist of Kerala, Dr. Choondal was a maverick with whom the conventional approach to folk art forms never cut ice. He led a bohemian life that drew flak from his family and the intelligentsia. But his lifestyle produced a wide range of information about a world that was unknown to most people until then. Indira Gandhi National Centre of Arts had honoured him with its first fellowship for the promotion of tribal arts.
The documentary has been directed by C.G. Prince, a disciple of Dr. Choondal. Prince has focussed on Dr. Choondal's way of working. A series of lively shots successfully capture the researcher's intrinsic method of collecting data by interacting with folk artistes. One of the shots, recreated with the help of artiste Koran, an exponent of `Thirikkuthira' (revolving horse) from Alappad in Thrissur district, stands out. Dr. Choondal was a scholar who always identified with artistes, folk or tribal.
He took pains to practise many of the art forms and staged them on many occasions. Stills showing him dancing with a bobby horse on his shoulders, demonstrating the movements of Margam Kali and Chavittu Natakam on which he had organised extensive workshops, and as a shamanic priest help in throwing light on his esoteric style.
Cast
Prince's selection of the cast for the documentary is laudable. Ravi Anthikad as Dr. Choondal faithfully reproduces the mannerism peculiar to the scholar, though he overplays some of them at times. The script, also by Prince delves into his literary works as well.
The biographical sketch is short but all-embracing. The filmmaker has taken care to maintain a rustic ambience throughout the movie.
The background music has been scored by Rajesh Dass. Narration is by Tony Vattakkuzhy.
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