“I’ve always dreamed of pursuing arts; writing, storytelling, and filmmaking since childhood. Growing up in Trivandrum, life wasn’t easy. Financial struggles and health challenges impacted my childhood days, making me a target for bullying. My family’s situation and my own health issues made me stand out among my peers, subjecting me to bullying from friends, relatives, and even neighbors.
Despite these challenges early on, I learned to trust in my abilities and aspirations. ‘Have faith in our wings, than on the branch we sit on,’ was a saying that resonated with me, reminding me to believe in myself and my dreams.
Inspired by the performances of Malayalam superstar Mohanlal, I aspired to pursue acting. However, as I delved deeper into the world of cinema, I realized that the true essence of storytelling lay in the hands of writers and directors. Nevertheless, Mohanlal’s performances continued to inspire and motivate my passion for filmmaking.
Amidst the hardships, I found solace in writing, using poetry as a means to express my emotions. My first poem, written about 20 years ago when my boss passed away, helped me cope with my grief and showed my growing talent. I later ventured into direction, writing and directing small plays in my village in Kerala.
Despite societal pressures and financial constraints, I pursued my education in Science, eventually becoming a Neuro Technician. However, my heart remained connected to the world of filmmaking. Then I moved to Bahrain and got a job as a neuro technician at a hospital, but I felt drawn to the world of filmmaking.
My first cinematic venture was “Avalil Oru Kadhayund,” a project that is extremely close to my heart, is shaped through years of hard work and dedication. From scripting to casting, from pre-production to post-production, every step of the filmmaking process was a challenge. Despite numerous obstacles, including financial constraints and logistical hurdles, I found my way to establish myself as a filmmaker through the support of my family, friends and mentors.
Throughout my journey, my guiding principles have been rooted in kindness and hope. I believe in trusting my instincts and staying true to my vision, no matter the obstacles that lie ahead. My greatest aspiration remains to bring the stories of ordinary people to the forefront, weaving them into narratives that resonate with audiences worldwide.”
- Vaisakh Kulangara, Filmmaker