A labour of love
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`Ottakambinadom' traces P. Bhaskaran's growth as a literary and cultural icon of Kerala.
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MULTIFACETED WORDSMITH: `Ottakambinadom' attempts to put on record the contributions of P. Bhaskaran.
`Ottakambinadom,' a short film directed by Yatindardaas, is a tribute to poet, lyricist and filmmaker P. Bhaskaran. It traces his growth as a literary and cultural icon of Kerala who left his indelible impression in all the fields he worked in.
Beginning from the culturally vibrant Kodungallor, from where Bhaskaran hails, the film introduces viewers to his family and the environment he grew up in. Bhaskaran himself appears in the film and takes viewers to the school he studied in and the environs that nurtured the poet in him.
Dramatised version
While the first half of the film is more like a documentary, the second half is a dramatised version of Bhaskaran's childhood and student days and his growth as a fiery political activist of the Left movement in Kerala. While the film gives a detailed account of his work as a poet and filmmaker, there is only a passing mention of his work as a poetic lyricist. A few clippings of his films could have enriched the film on a filmmaker who was a trendsetter when it came to themes and direction.
For the producer Soman, the whole venture was more a labour of love and a way of paying homage to Bhaskaran. He feels that a pioneer like Bhasakran has not been given his due by the State or Central Governments or cultural organisations in Kerala.
Says Soman, "Not many are aware that Bhaskaran Master was a student activist who was imprisoned for his work. Moreover, I doubt if there has been an effort to document his work and life on film. Many of his creative endeavours, be it poetry, films or lyrics, were inspired by a deep desire for social justice and a protest against exploitation. `Ottakambinadom' attempts to put on record the contributions of this versatile genius."
S.N
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