Malayalam movie ‘Izhakalkkappuram’ calls for a critical approach to Gandhian ideals

Does Gandhian ideology need a re-reading and re-think? Venu Nair’s film I zhakalkkappuram tries to address this pertinent question. The film, which released in theatres on Gandhi Jayanthi, October 2, is a ‘philosophical chamber drama’, which tells the story of a Gandhian, Anand Sivan, a retired academic, and his progessive daughter Karthi, a documentary filmmaker.

The narrative unfolds when Karthi decides to make a documentary on Mahatma Gandhi. As the father and daughter begin discussing Gandhian ideology, the nation’s past, present, and other topics, there is friction. Anand goes on the defensive when Karthi questions certain Gandhian ideals and principles. He goes silent when his convictions are in conflict with facts put forth by Karthi. Acting as a bridge in their tense conversations is Jagadeesh, Anand’s confidant.