Jayan Cherian's 'Rhythm of Dammam' Debuts at IFFI 2024

Mumbai, Nov 28 (NationPress) During the 2024 International Film Festival of India (IFFI) held in Goa, director Jayan Cherian's impactful film 'Rhythm of Dammam' had its eagerly awaited debut.

This film shines a light on the trials and tenacity of the marginalized Siddi community. Set against the vibrant backdrop of Dammam, it examines the community's rich cultural legacy and the difficulties they encounter, highlighting a narrative that has remained largely overlooked in mainstream cinema.

'Rhythm of Dammam' features actual members of the Siddi community, with Chinmay Siddi taking on the lead role of Jayaram. The cast also includes Prashant Siddi, a prominent figure in the Kannada film industry, known for his performances in several acclaimed films alongside the late Puneeth Rajkumar.

Set in the Siddi community of Yellapur, Karnataka, the film narrates the journey of twelve-year-old Jayaram, who becomes tormented by the spirit of his deceased grandfather and grapples with his sense of reality. The story explores the intergenerational trauma faced by the Siddi community, rooted in their historical enslavement under Portuguese traders.

Reflecting on the enthusiastic reception of 'Rhythm of Dammam' at IFFI, Jayan Cherian stated, 'This film is deeply personal to me. After spending five years with the Siddi community, I felt compelled to share their untold stories of resilience and cultural identity. I’m honoured that the story of the Siddi community’s strength and spirit has resonated so deeply with the diverse audiences at IFFI.'

'Rhythm of Dammam' represents a pioneering work, being the first feature film set within the Siddi community. It interweaves the Siddi dialect of Konkani with Kannada, showcasing the cultural depth of the community. The title of the film draws inspiration from Dammam, a traditional percussion instrument integral to Siddi rituals and festivities.

The Siddi people, descendants of the Bantu tribes from Southeast Africa, have faced centuries of enslavement and systemic marginalization within India's caste hierarchy. This film highlights their enduring journey of resilience.