Sep. 24, 2021|India|R
Genre: Adventure;Crime;Drama;Family;Kids;Mystery;Romance;South;Indian
Description: Aakashavaani, a 2021 film directed by Ashwin Gangaraju, presents a compelling narrative that delves into the lives of a tribal community isolated from the modern world. Initially, the premise might seem like a light-hearted slice-of-life drama, reminiscent of films like “Cinema Bandi.” However, it quickly takes on a more serious tone, focusing on the harsh realities faced by the oppressed and uninformed tribal people.
The story revolves around a child from a small tribal village who discovers a radio set. The community, unfamiliar with such technology, begins to worship it as a divine entity. While this concept might evoke humor in some contexts, Ashwin’s approach is far from caricaturish. Instead, the film highlights the systemic tyranny inflicted upon the innocent tribals and their struggle for survival.
With a runtime of just over two hours, the screenplay meticulously establishes the setting, its cultural rules, deeply rooted beliefs, and the oppressive social hierarchy. This detailed world-building provides a comprehensive understanding of the tribal community’s way of life.
The film’s technical aspects, including Suresh Raghutu’s cinematography, Mohan and Sandeep’s production design, and Raghunath Kemisetty’s sound design, play a crucial role in immersing the audience into this unique setting. The narrative also explores the tribals’ fears and faith, such as their belief in a “death star” light that signifies the end of life—a notion later challenged in the climax.
A pivotal character, Chandram, played by Samuthirakani, emerges as a school teacher who attempts to dismantle the generations-old delusions imposed on the community. He communicates with them in a relatable manner, using their own belief system as a basis for understanding. Rather than delivering a dramatic monologue, Chandram acts as a catalyst for change, allowing the community to process and question their reality over time.
Overall, Aakashavaani is a thought-provoking film that sheds light on the resilience and struggles of marginalized communities, blending serious themes with impactful storytelling.
Cast director: Ashwin Gangaraju
Cast actor: Samuthirakani, Vinay Varma
Original name: Aakashavaani