Interviewer: Sameeha
Interviewee: Rasu Ranjith, Director of Theethum Nandrum
- How was ‘Theethum Nandrum’ initiated? Can you briefly tell us about the crew and the making of the movie?
I completed my editing course at Adyar Film Institute. After winning in the "Naalaya Iyakunar" show of Kalaingar TV for our short film -- "Kaavalan", we decided to do make our own movie. ‘Theethum Nandrum’ was thus a result of this; with Aparna Bala Murali from "Soorarai Potru" and Jeethu Joseph playing female and male leads respectively. Despite being debutants, the cast members played their roles well. The cast and the film crew members were very supportive and the team had very good coordination. Sathya Sir helped us out with the music composition for the movie. Every movie portrays some emotion and this movie is no exception. We have employed new technologies for the screen visuals. I think this, along with the sound effects will make for a great movie experience.
- How do you plan to divert children from their physical disabilities and help them realize that their impairment cannot block them from pursuing their dreams?
They (specially-abled children) strive hard to make their place in the society because they feel that they're missing something within them. First of all, we don't have to show them our sympathies. On the contrary, we must learn from them, because we are not as keen at observing our surroundings as they are. We mustn’t treat them as someone very different from us. Instead, we must consider them as a part of our friends and family. We can't help them in their progress, if we don't mingle with them and respect them for who they are.
- The whole world still regards with high esteem, Helen Keller- who set an example by breaking boundaries despite her disabilities. What is your perspective on specially-abled children?
Each one should discover the potential within them. As far as specially-abled children are concerned, we have to put in additional efforts to make them realize and harness their true potential. Their teachers must guide them in this path to self-discovery. They must also receive some psychological help to keep them mentally and emotionally healthy. However, it’s disheartening to see that children from rural areas are still left behind. Schools for special children must take initiatives to help these underprivileged children too.
- What difficulties did you face while shooting the film—‘Theethum Nandrum’?
We all must overcome difficulties before we succeed. Crossing hurdles is a part and parcel of my job. Making a movie with a new cast and crew was the real challenge. But when we hear good reviews about the movie, we are beyond elated! We did what we love and we must face the outcome - be it commendation or condemnation.
- What message do you wish to convey to those, still not aware of doing some good deed to such children in need?
Events like these (Vidhaigal) are good sources of entertainment for these specially-abled children. It should happen more often. It'll help create awareness or at the least, mentally push people to wait for specially-abled children to cross the road. Engineering students should use their knowledge and talents in improving such children’s lifestyles.
I appreciate the event coordinators for having arranged such an amazing event— “Vidhaigal” and for sowing seeds of compassion in our students.
