Kozhikode: The afternoon show at Tagore theatre screening the women’s international film festival on Wednesday was packed for one reason, ‘Manhole’, the film adjudged as the best in 2016. And ‘Manhole’ and its director, Vidhu Vincent didn’t belie expectations. The grim reminder of the plight of manual scavengers was received with huge applause. The film brings out the journalist within the director and speaks for the fact that 8 lakh people of the country are engaged in this menial labour which was abolished as per law.
Shortcomings such as the below average technical quality or lack of visual appeal never comes in the way of the theme it deals with. “It struck as a hard story. The gross apathy of our system towards people cleaning the septic waste is disturbing,” said Joseph John, a teacher. Deepthi Chirayil, a college student found the film reflects a stark reality. “A film has focused the camera on the most neglected lot. It is noteworthy that ‘Manhole’ found a place in the state budget,” she said.Speaking after the screening, Vidhu Vincent, a journalist, said that the state budget allocating Rs 0 crore for the safe cleaning of septic tanks was more than any award.“We were overwhelmed that the film served its cause. It may be the first time a film finds a place in the budget,” she remarked. 'Manhole' is expected to reach theatres soon.
