Documentary on Writer Paul Zacharia Premieres in Thiruvananthapuram
A new biographical documentary titled Zacharia, tracing the personal experiences and literary career of renowned author Paul Zacharia, was screened at the Kairali-Sree-Nila Theatre complex in Thiruvananthapuram on Tuesday, August 18. Directed by award-winning filmmaker Shiny Benjamin, the film presents an intimate look into the 81-year-old writer’s life and work through recollections, animated visuals, and reflections on his notable creative milestones.
What Happened
The one-hour documentary, produced by Achu Ullatil and K.M. Gafoor, explores the evolution of Paul Zacharia—popularly known as Zacharia or Skariachan—from his upbringing in Urulikunnam in Kottayam to his student days in Bengaluru and his professional career as a journalist and author in Delhi. Incorporating animated illustrations by Sunil Raj, the film bridges Mr. Zacharia’s lived experiences with scenes reflecting his diverse body of work.
The project brought together several prominent technical contributors, including cinematographer Jebin Jacob, editor Don Max, and veteran composer Sarreth, who scored the music. During the event, director Shiny Benjamin reflected on the demanding process of condensing the author’s extensive life into a feature-length format, remarking that editing down roughly 40 hours of footage into a sixty-minute documentary represented the primary challenge of the production.
Speaking about the film, Mr. Zacharia expressed happiness with the creative treatment of his journey, noting the satisfaction of seeing his personal life and literary stories played out side-by-side like a work of fiction.
Key Highlights
- Screening Venue: The documentary was presented at the Kairali-Sree-Nila Theatre complex in Thiruvananthapuram.
- Creative Team: Directed by Shiny Benjamin, produced by Achu Ullatil and K.M. Gafoor, with cinematography by Jebin Jacob, music by Sarreth, editing by Don Max, and animated illustrations by Sunil Raj.
- Literary Scope: The documentary covers a writing career that began in 1964 with the short story Unni the Child and spans short fiction, novellas, essays, travelogues, screenplays, and columns.
- Major Works Referenced: Notable titles mentioned in connection with his career include Bhaskara Pattelarum Ente Jeevithavum, Salam America, Aarkkariyam, and Oru Nasrani Yuvavum Goulishashthravum.
- Key Influences and Themes: The film addresses Mr. Zacharia’s perspectives on themes such as Christianity, communism, and misogyny, alongside tributes to his close relationships with late directors G. Aravindan and John Abraham.
Why This Matters
The documentary provides a documented record of one of Kerala’s prominent literary voices. In the film, Mr. Zacharia reflects on his friendships with legendary filmmakers John Abraham and G. Aravindan, describing the passing of Aravindan as the loss of half his soul and noting that a core intention of the documentary is to resurrect their memory through his own narrative. Furthermore, the film underlines the author’s core creative credo: that a writer fails the moment they stop reinventing themselves with each new piece of writing.
What to Watch Next
Following its screening in Thiruvananthapuram, further details regarding wider public screenings, broadcast schedules, or distribution platforms for the documentary have not yet been announced.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who directed the documentary on Paul Zacharia?
The documentary Zacharia was directed by award-winning filmmaker Shiny Benjamin.
When did Paul Zacharia begin his literary career?
Paul Zacharia debuted as a writer in 1964 with his short story titled Unni the Child.
What are some of Paul Zacharia’s best-known works?
Among his most renowned publications are Bhaskara Pattelarum Ente Jeevithavum, Salam America, Aarkkariyam, and Oru Nasrani Yuvavum Goulishashthravum.
Source: The Hindu