Punalur Chandrasekharan

My name is Punalur Chandrasekharan (N. Chandrasekharan Pillai). Married and has two children. I am a postgraduate in Journalism and a seasoned storyteller who has penned three acclaimed Malayalam serials and an English animation series. Stepping into the world of direction, Chandrasekharan make his debut with “Ma Nishada”, showcasing his creative vision and passion for compelling narratives.

Director's Statement
With a runtime of 18:58 minutes "Man Nishada," explores the transformative power of rebellion and redemption, touching upon the deeply rooted issue of Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) and its aftermath. This film is a labor of love born out of my deep empathy for societal injustices and a commitment to creating narratives that inspire change. With a warm, evocative palette and intense performances, Ma Nishada crusades for gender equality, resonating with its audience emotionally and intellectually.
The narrative of Ma Nishada unfolds fast paced with the events sequenced for just 1:10 minutes, happening between the Maghreb prayer at 6:33 PM and the Isha prayer at 7:43 PM on the same day, precisely marking moments of transformation and change. The film’s climactic synchronization of the prayer call with its closing emotional arc is a deliberate artistic choice, symbolizing redemption and empowerment. This alignment highlights the thematic power of the narrative, bringing a poignant and culturally enriched conclusion to the story."
Through the eyes of its strong female protagonists, Ma Nishada portrays the triumph of wome empowerment against patriarchal oppression. Their journey mirrors the evolution of a society striving for equality, independence, and justice. In contrast, the redemption arc of a man grappling with his past cruelty offers a poignant exploration of change and hope. As a filmmaker, I believe that cinema is a powerful tool to challenge societal norms. I am proud, my cinema is doing it. “Ma Nishada” champions courage, love, and the fight against FGM, advocating for Women’s Rights and Equality. It is a call to action.
Sincerely
PUNALUR CHANDRASEKHARAN