Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, Feb 2: Considered as a historic cultural event for nomadic tribe of Gujjars, the public screening of first ever Gojri film “Malli Gujjari” was held at the Gujjar Centre for Culture and Heritage, here today.
Written by Dr Javaid Rahi and directed by Qayoom Raja, the film based on issues related to women empowerment in tribal and nomadic culture, was appreciated by audience which comprised mainly of Gujjar youth and community leaders.
Other than an identification with the dialogues full of chaste Gojari idioms and proverbs, the main character of the film named after Malli Gujjari, who was bestowed with Kirti Chakra, highest civilian award for her exemplary courage and bravery in face of infiltrators across the border, and other characters with popular local nicknames, struck chord with the spectators who especially appreciated the impressive acting of local actors.
The film, a presentation of Neeru Films J&K, has been produced by Neeru Raina daughter of renowned film/serial maker K K Raina and Kashmiri Poetess Bimla Raina. The lyrics by Gojri poet Showkat Naseem Chowdhary were composed in lilting songs by renowned singer Suraj Singh.
Talking to Excelsior, Dr. Javaid Rahi, the writer of the film said that it is the story of a poverty-stricken village Tribal Gujjar woman named Malli Gujjari who amid many other trials and tribulations, struggles to raise herself and survive against social evils and anti women customs which still exist in remote tribal belts. Despite facing hardships, she sets excellent moral example with her grit and resolve as what it means to be a tribal woman. In the end she succeeds in destroying evil forces for the general good of her community, he said.
Director of film Qayoom Raja said the shooting for the film which showcases unique and vibrant tribal culture of Gujjars, was done in tribal localities of Rajpora, Darhali Qilla and other areas of Rajouri.
Giving details, Neeru Raina producer said the film is based on a Gojri serial which was commissioned by Doordarshan, Parsar Bharti Corporation of India, New Delhi, and already been telecast in shape of serial by Kashir Channel and Jammu Doordarshan. “We are screening this film in tribal Gujjar society to create awareness among community of Gujjars,” she said.
Masud Chowdhary, former Vice Chancellor of BGSB University and Patron of Gurjar Desh Charitable Trust was chief guest on the occasion while MLC Vijay Bakaya, Director Jammu Doordarshan, Shabir Mujahid, well-known Punjabi writer Khalid Husain were special invitees.
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