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Porkaalam

Love, friendship, brother-sister affection, sensitivity towards the differently-abled, the intricacies of our traditional art works and a sneak peek into the lives of these art makers…

These are treasures of Porkaalam...

This movie created an awareness of the stigma, challenges, pain and tears surrounding the differently-abled people and their families. Such individuals do not naturally feel less worthy because of only their conditions. So often, it is the society's pity and rejection that crushes their self-confidence and self-esteem. At the end of the day, all they want is acceptance and equality. When given the right opportunity and training, many have come to prove themselves in their respective fields. Without that, when pressurised by the judgemental nature of the society, many of them have lost themselves in the darkness forever, like Panjavarnam. Sadly, Manikam will carry the pain of his helplessness for the rest of his life. Him marrying a differently-abled girl as a dedication to his sister, and so that no one should face the same fate was a noble ending and an example to be followed. The theme of the entire movie was beautifully summed-up in the last song "Oona Oonam". For this very reason, this movie will stay close to my heart.

The name of two precious stones. Manikam. Maragatham. Their poetry-like love story kept us continually curious on whether they will someday unite in love. The indirect conversations they shared through their art works (the clay-pot and clay-horse) were pure classics. In those moments, their anxieties, yearning and tears became ours too. The expression of their love peaked with the "Thanjavooru Mannu Eduthu" song. As a clay-art maker, Manikam expressed his love in the form of the art he knew best. That added great value to the song's visualisation and Manikam's characterisation.

On the 22nd anniversary of Porkaalam, reminiscining this brought back such fond memories. And a special mention to Murali sir and Manivannan sir (who are no longer with us) for their years of emoting such beautiful performances.

Thank you for the changes he has brought into this society with the reflection of his art and the nobility of his thoughts. Eagerly waiting for more!

I feel privileged that today I am able to share these thoughts with the man himself, after 22 long years.

Because of him and the memories of the films he has made...

The 90s era will always be our sweet and unforgettable "Porkaalam"...!

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Never been a fan of pre-packaged coffee, but this was good, cold.

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These people I cross,

Distinctive shapes, sizes, standards,

Relishing discoveries,

Resilience in dolours.

~ Rebecca Shamasundari

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This is what we call 'Soul Food'. Their Chole Bhature was to die for.

@ Big Singh Chapati, Subang

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The night breeze knocks my window,

Strolling my soul from peace,

Awakening memories long forgotten,

Triggering my solace of tranquility,

Into the dark realms of my mind,

Where a wound still bleeds,

And a scar still hurts.

~ Rebecca Shamasundari

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The best part of being Malaysian, is that you celebrate everything with FOOD.

@ Thai Tuk Tuk, Publika

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I Am.

Undivided Positivity.

Unlimited Possibility.

Undeterred Perseverance.

~ Rebecca Shamasundari

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Window is small,

Visibility is restricted,

Perspective is exhaustive.

~ Rebecca Shamasundari

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Reflection on the window,

Storm on the backdrop,

Mirroring tell tales,

Only I recognise.

~ Rebecca Shamasundari

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I look at the morning sun and the gradually ascending brightness, chattering of feathered friends and endowment of fresh breath, reminds me that every new day is a renewed promise. Yesterday is a reflection and tomorrow is a mirage. The seeping light assures that all the darkness that surrounds me will fade away, swallowed by the rules of nature.

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This reminds me of these lyrics from Kannathil Muthamittal :

Vellai pookal ulagam engum malarave. Vidiyum bhoomi amaidhikaaga vidiyave.

English translation:

Let white flowers blossom everywhere in the world. Let the world dawn for peace.

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Beyond the horizon,

Awaits an incredible story,

The secret of the forgotten,

Deciphered now in plenary.

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Life is as such. Curvy and unknown.

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The past, the present, and the future - living in cohesion.

@ Penang, Malaysia

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Even if it's for a brief stint, you can't leave Penang without savouring their local food first. And that, was a bowl of goodness and complementing hot Chai.

Hokkien Mee & Milk Tea

@ Fettes Park Coffee Shop, Penang

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This is what people call as 'random acts of beauty'. Little things you see that suddenly makes you feel better. 122 years strong and counting.

@ Sultan Abdul Samad Building, Kuala Lumpur

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Bliss is Briyani.

@ Thaba Express, KL