Sathish Kumar C
Assistant Professor, Department of English, VET Institute of Arts and Science (Co-Education) College, Erode – 638012, Tamilnadu, India.
Rupkatha Journal, Vol. 16, Issue 1, 2024. https://doi.org/10.21659/rupkatha.v16n1.17
[Article History: Received: 26 December 2023. Revised: 22 March 2024. Accepted: 24 March 2024. Published: 30 March 2024]
Abstract
In 2022, the Kannada film “Kantara” captivated audiences with its unique blend of folklore, environmentalism, and political commentary. This paper argues that “Kantara” transcends conventional cinema to become a powerful agent of ecological discourse and empowerment. Set against India’s backdrop of complex human-nature interactions, “Kantara” weaves a narrative that resonates with contemporary concerns. Drawing upon postcolonial ecocriticism, indigenous studies, and film theory, this analysis delves into the film’s layered meanings. We examine how “Kantara” intertwines the legend of a forest deity with the struggles of a tribal community facing displacement. The film celebrates indigenous knowledge and critiques exploitative development through its portrayal of traditional rituals and beliefs. “Kantara” goes beyond storytelling; it immerses viewers in a sensory experience. Breathtaking visuals and a powerful musical score paint a vivid picture of the sacred forest and its inhabitants, creating a deep emotional connection. Ultimately, “Kantara” compels viewers to become active participants in the dialogue surrounding ecology and social justice. By analyzing the film’s subversive potential and its celebration of community resilience, we argue that it acts as a catalyst for ecological agency, inspiring viewers to advocate for sustainable practices and fight for cultural preservation. This paper contributes to the growing scholarship on folklore, film, and environmental activism in India. By offering a detailed analysis of “Kantara,” we aim to enrich the discourse on cinema’s role in fostering critical engagement with ecological and social issues. Examining the film’s nuanced portrayal of folklore, its powerful environmental message, and its subversive political commentary, we hope to shed light on the transformative potential of storytelling in shaping a more just and sustainable future.
Keywords: Kannada cinema, folklore, Bhootara, ecological agency, indigenous studies, environmental activism.
Sustainable Development Goals: Climate Action, Life on Land
Citation: Kumar, S. C. (2024). From Folklore to Film: The Politics of Storytelling and Ecological Agency in the film Kantara. Rupkatha Journal 16:1. https://doi.org/10.21659/rupkatha.v16n1.17