Empuraan: A reminder of preserving ravaged memories 

The Malayalam film Empuraan has been embroiled in controversy due to its perceived depiction of the 2002 Gujarat riots and the Godhra train burning incident. The movie’s portrayal of these events has sparked heated debates, with some critics accusing it of distorting historical facts and promoting a biased narrative. Others have defended the film, arguing that it sheds light on a painful chapter in India’s history. Amidst the backlash, the film’s director and cast have faced criticism, and the movie’s release has been marked by protests and calls for a boycott.

The film Empuraan holds relevance today, not for its artistic merit, but for its ability to evoke memories of a land ravaged by the abuse of power. The current government was built on the very soil where these memories were buried, and now, they’re being unearthed. The release of Empuraan has sparked controversy, but it’s essential to revisit the past, especially when documentaries about the Gujarat massacre and the Godhra incident have already been made.

These documentaries have faced protests and disruptions during screenings, and many have been unable to reach a wider audience. However, it’s crucial to revive these memories, especially during times when the past is being revisited. This is also an opportunity to acknowledge the bravery of directors and artists who refused to let historical realities be buried, capturing the essence of Godhra instead.

One such individual who comes to mind is Shubhdeep Chakraborty, who directed the film “Godhra Tak: The Terror Trail.” A former journalist, Shubhdeep resigned to uncover the truth behind the Godhra incident. Despite lacking formal training in filmmaking, he felt compelled to document the events. I had the chance to meet and converse with him on multiple occasions. Shubhdeep once shared with me that he took on this challenge to ensure that the truths witnessed during the Godhra incident were not lost with the passage of time.

Unfortunately, after completing his courageous endeavor, Shubhdeep faded into obscurity. His documentary, “Godhra Tak: The Terror Trail,” is available on YouTube and presents a factual account of the events, devoid of sensationalism. It explains what transpired in Godhra, who set the train ablaze, and how the subsequent investigations unfolded.

Empuraan serves as a vital reminder of the importance of preserving memories and not allowing them to be forgotten. In this context, it’s essential that we continue to push this narrative forward.

Mujeeb Rahman Kinalur is author and cultural critic based at Calicut, Kerala