ARPO’s Documentary on Kota Tribe Screened at IDFFK
The screening comes as a recognition of ARPO’s continued efforts to amplify indigenous voices and preserve tribal cultural heritage through impactful documentary storytelling.
ARPO’s documentary “Lamp, Oh Lamp, Where Are You?”, produced for the Kendra Sangeet Natak Akademi under the Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav initiative, was recently screened at the prestigious International Documentary Film Festival of Kerala (IDFK), held as part of the International Film Festival of Kerala (IFFK).
The documentary offers a rare and intimate window into the life and cultural traditions of the Kothar (Kota) community of the Nilgiris—a small but significant tribal group with a population of around 2,500. Known for their distinctive festivals, rituals, and musical forms, the Kotas are among the earliest known settlers of the Nilgiri mountain ranges in southern India.
During the screening, ARPO Executive Director Sruthin Lal introduced the film to the audience, contextualizing the importance of documenting and preserving the cultural practices of marginalized communities whose voices are often overlooked.
Synopsis:
Lamp, Oh Lamp, Where Are You? is an evocative documentary that explores the vibrant cultural tapestry of the Kota tribe. Through vivid imagery and rich soundscapes, it captures the community’s sacred festivals, hauntingly beautiful songs, and their deep spiritual connection with nature and the land they inhabit.
Crew:
- Cinematographer: Yadu Krishnan
- Editor: Shaijas K.M.
- Sound Recordist: Vimal Hari
- Sound Designer: Vishnu M
- Co-Producer: Sruthin Lal
- Producer: ARPO (Archival and Research Project of ARPO)
This screening marks a significant recognition of ARPO’s ongoing work in cultural documentation and the power of storytelling to bring indigenous voices to national platforms.
