What does the present generation know about the history of Kerala? How did we evolve into a developed, cultured and modern society? Were there horrifying and painful notes in the back pages? Nilavariyathe, a tragic love story starring Bala and Anumol, has the answers to some of these questions. Santhosh Keezhatoor, Indrans, Kalasaala Babu, Sajitha Madathil and Manju handle the other roles in this film.
Nilavariyathe, which released on Friday speaks of the caste discrimination and barriers that existed in Kerala a century ago. The story is set in Kasaragod and Kanhangad. It also features Theyyam.
“Nilavariyathe takes us back almost a hundred years and each frame projects the caste system that prevailed in the state and its painful effects on the people,” says Bala, who plays the central character Pokkan, belonging to the lower section of the society.
“This is one of the best messages that can be given to the new generation,” comments Uthpal Nayanar, the cameraman-turned-director of the movie, adding, “It gives them a sense of history and the story of their motherland.”
The character enacted by Anumol is called Paata. “The name of my character initially evoked a smile in me as my character in the previous movie was named Thathamma,” says Anumol, the central female character. “The movie is culturally rich and eloquent with the depiction of art forms like Theyyam. At present various incidents in society make us wonder whether the dark old days of caste prominence are returning. So this movie can be seen a message to society and a reminder of how dangerous the situation can be if caste and race separations return once again,” she concludes.
