Goa: The gripping Malayalam rescue drama Manjummel Boys took center stage in the Indian Panorama section of the 55th International Film Festival of India (IFFI). On Day 6 of the festival, the film’s director, Chidambaram, shared insights into the making of the film and its extraordinary real-life inspiration during a press conference at the PIB Media Centre in Goa.
The film recounts a harrowing and heroic tale based on a true story involving 11 young men from Manjummel, a village near Kochi, Kerala. The group had ventured into the infamous Devil’s Kitchen, also known as Guna Caves, in Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu. The location, made iconic by Kamal Haasan’s film Guna, became the setting for an extraordinary rescue mission when one of the group fell into a deep pit within the caves.
As local authorities abandoned the rescue efforts, one member, Siju David, risked his life to save his friend. The act of bravery and the camaraderie among the group became a celebrated story, emphasizing the themes of friendship, courage, and selflessness.
Director Chidambaram revealed that the incident had long been a part of Kerala’s collective memory. While there was an attempt to adapt it into a film a decade ago, the industry then lacked the resources and willingness to embrace such narratives.
“The Malayalam film industry has come a long way since then,” the director noted, crediting the rise of OTT platforms for expanding storytelling opportunities and encouraging filmmakers to experiment with unconventional subjects.
Filming posed unique challenges, particularly recreating the iconic Guna Caves. Due to restrictions on shooting at the actual location, the production team meticulously constructed a replica in a warehouse in Kochi.
“The true protagonist of the film is the cave,” Chidambaram remarked, emphasizing the effort to replicate its distinctive features. “I only wish I could have conveyed the cave’s scent to the screen,” he added, reflecting on the immersive qualities of the setting.
The inclusion of Manjummel Boys in IFFI’s Indian Panorama section underscores the evolution of Malayalam cinema and its focus on diverse, meaningful narratives. The film’s screening captivated audiences and reaffirmed the industry’s ability to bring compelling real-life stories to life.
The director’s remarks left the audience eager to witness the film’s journey, which is not only a tribute to the bravery of the Manjummel youth but also a celebration of Kerala’s storytelling prowess.