# Aadachayi

Aadachayi is a 2024 Malayalam film scheduled for theatrical release on January 17, 2025.
Directed by Binoy G Russel and produced by Siji Joseph under the banner of J.J. Productions, the film delves into the challenges and triumphs of farmers in Kuttanad, Kerala's rice bowl. The narrative centers on the life of a Kuttanadan farmer, portraying the unique struggles and resilience inherent in the region's agricultural community.
The film is anticipated to offer an authentic portrayal of Kuttanad's agrarian lifestyle, shedding light on the region's cultural and environmental aspects. The film's release is highly awaited by audiences eager to experience its compelling storytelling and depiction of rural life.

## Plot

The basic theme of the film is a tender thanks giving to nature. The crux of the narrative is a depiction of how democracy and bureaucracy act hypocritical to nature. The story of how the son of a Kuttanadan farmer Aadachayi who grows up to be an Agriculture officer and defends the Western Ghats like his foster mother is narrated to nature by his own mother Kuttanad and his foster mother, The Western Ghats. "We will never let go of the land which survived every threat till this moment
It revolves around the life of a farmer in Kuttanad, Kerala, often referred to as the "rice bowl of Kerala." The film portrays the trials and tribulations of the farming community, delving into their resilience, environmental challenges, and cultural richness. Set against the lush backwaters and paddy fields of Kuttanad, the story offers an authentic and heartfelt depiction of rural life, highlighting the significance of agriculture in the region.

## Cast

* Chembil Asokan as Aadachayi
* Dr Joji Joshua Philipose as Akhil Adam
* Pramod Veliyanadu as Member
* Jordi Poonraj as Gomez Tharakan
* Jolly Easo as Janaki
* Dayana Binson as Chandini Nirmal
* Surabhi Subhash as Maidhili
* Anthrayose as Maitreyan
* Sujith as Plavana Shanmugham
* Ponnuvila Scaria - Sughosh Venugopal as Plavana Shanmugham
* Maximillan Kurian Ninan as Chitrabhanu
* Sibi Ramadas as Sreenanda
* Ruma Jishnu as Gramy Philip
* Santhakumaran E as FR Augustine
* Anil Attingal as Dr. Gangadharan
* Kalanilayam Sanal Kumar as Revenue Minister
* Sajo Joseph as Madhavan
* Raiz Sumaiya Rehman as Jagannathan
* Jayan Chandrakantham as Sekharan
* Seshika Madhav as Aleena

## Production

The crux of the story was conceived by Dr. Binoy G Russel which was then developed by Mr. Sunil K Anand. The shooting started in April, 2022 in Oor experiences, Mallappally and also in the subsequent months in and around Veliyanadu and Champakkulam, Kuttanadu and also Elappara near Kuttikkanam.

## Development
### Casting

Chembil Asokan plays the title role of Aadachayi. The story revolves around the life of Akhil Adam who is a farmer and agricultural officer turned activist and is portrayed by Joji Joshua Philipose, an orthopaedic surgeon by profession. There are equally strong women characters including Dayana Binson as Chandini Nirmal and Surabhi Subhash as Maidhili.

## Music

The movie has eight songs written by Sunil K Anand (3), Mankomb Gopalakrishnan(2),Varkala G R Edwin (1) Dr.Philipose Joshua(1), Sunny Kaitharam Veliyanad(1). 5 of them were composed by Dr. Joji Joshua Philipose, 2 by Varkala G R Edwin and one song by Sunny Aitharam Veliyanad. The songs were sung by Dr. Joji Joshua Philipose, Ancy Issac Babu and Sunny Kaitharam Veliyanad. Orchestration were done By Saju Ramanchira, Sam Malayam and Kutty Jose

## Accolades

* Best Environmental Movie - Satyajit Ray Golden arc Film festival 2024
* The Best Narrative Feature Film - Kookai International film festival 2024
* Filmfare Award for Best Debut Director - Better Earth International film festival 2024 - Director Dr. Binoy G Russel
* National Film Award for Best Feature Film - International Film Festival of India in May - June 2024
* National Film Award for Best Feature Film - Malnad International Wild life and Environmental film festival 2024