In an era when trivial issues go on spreading fiercely like forest fires and inflate to communal riots, filmmaker Bijulal is trying to portray the sensitive outlook of society through a bold project titled Rakthasakshyam, which is his first independent movie.
As he explains, the project is inspired by a real incident which triggered heated public agitations a few years ago. The movie claims to show us that even in a so-called progressive and developed society, discrimination based on caste and religion remains unaltered. As a result, society as a whole has to witness cruel and grotesque incidents. Through the movie, he delineates the harsh realities faced by the sidelined communities.
Bijulal has a prominent career in the tinsel town having worked in blockbusters like Narasimham, and with many acclaimed directors. He was the associate of P. T. Kunju Muhammed for the movie Viswasapoorvam Mansoor.
Rakthasakshyam has Jijoy Pulikal Rajagoplan, faculty at Pune Film Institute, in the lead role. The film has several new faces along with known artistes.
“The movie focuses on how religion, caste and politics deeply impact the minds of ordinary people and how real spirituality goes undiscovered by true believers. Even those who really believe in spirituality are in a confused state of mind,” says Bijulal.
He has also attempted to throw light on various socio-cultural issues faced by Keralites in recent times.
The movie takes its cue from a real life incident and progresses through fictional depiction of connected happenings. “Rakthasakshyam is a serious movie with a tint of all commercial elements so that it takes you through harsh realities and entertains the viewers at the same time,” the director says. “Religion and religious institutions have turned into mere profit-making institutions.”
“Usually, these kinds of movies tend to lose connectivity with the audience. But, I have tried to overcome it through portraying the subject in a simple manner without much frills and thus strengthening the link with viewers,” he added.
Post-production works have almost been completed and the film is in final mixing stage. Bijulal is eagerly waiting for this year’s IFFK as his debut movie has been submitted to be premiered at the prestigious film festival and is waiting for approval. Commercial release of the movie is scheduled for January end or February.
