Existentialism Transcending Boundaries: A Comparative Study of ‘Kaliyattam’ ‘Vanaprastham’

Abstract

This research paper examines the idea of existentialism in Indian films, particularly in the films Kaliyattam directed by Jayaraj and Vanaprastham directed by Shaji N Karun. Through a comparative approach, it delves deep into how concepts like alienation, absurdity, liberty, and quest of meaning are reflected in characters and the stories of these notable Malayalam movies. Through an analysis of thematic similarity, characterisation, symbols and narrative structure, this paper aims to understand on how Indian cinema grapples with philosophical questions and general cultural representations of the society. This study explores social themes in Indian cinema thereby also seeking to understand the cultural and contextual context. The paper also tries to understand the power of cinema as a medium for exploring the depths of human psyche. The aim of this paper is to examine how existentialism in Indian cinema contributes to a better understanding of contemporary society.