Five thousand years ago in India, medicines were prepared with green plants, herbs, and minerals; ancient manuscripts were preserved on bark and stone. This was Ayurveda, the “knowledge for long life,” the oldest healing system in the world. Yet throughout its history, practitioners have struggled to achieve “authentic” ayurvedic practice. Authenticity presents five institutions representing contemporary forms of treatment and philosophy. From a modern medical school, through tourist resorts, spiritual centres, and panchakarma treatments, to the oldest center in the world, this film examines the multiplicity of practices in contemporary Kerala, providing audiences an overview of Ayurveda in the modern world. Authenticity may be realized in a multiplicity of ways.
Produced by: Prof. Antony Palackal
Edited and Directed by : Prof. Wesley Shrum
Story of the struggles of the landless in Kerala.
Land has become increasingly a potent volatile issue in India today, especially in the context of the contemporary liberalisation policies of the state. In and through three representative heroic land struggles in Kerala - the Southern most state in India with high Development Index, this academic movie maps the trajectory of Broken promises, seemingly a never ending predicament of the excluded and the displaced in a state known for its revolutionary Land Reforms in the 1970's and for the political rhetoric thereafter.
Produced and Directed by: Dr. Antony Palackal
Camera by: Prof. Weseley Shrum
This short YouTube video presents the plight of the elderly in
Kerala The rapidly increasing population of elderly in Kerala are still grapples with concerns about
healthcare, social welfare and financial support. Many of them face loneliness and social isolation due to
changing family structures and migration of the younger generation in search of work… and their plight
continues…There is a need for comprehensive policies and programmes that address the specific needs of the
elderly persons, including social support systems, affordable healthcare and initiative to promote active
aging and inclusivity in society.
For centuries, Dalits in India have endured a long-standing history of oppression and discrimination, rooted in the deeply entrenched caste system. As the lowest social group, Dalits formerly known as ‘untouchables’ have been subjected to systematic marginalization and prejudice. Despite legal safeguards and affirmative action measures, many Dalits continue to face subjugation and exploitation, perpetuating the cycle of intergenerational disadvantage. The movie, age-old story of Dalit’s plight through the heart-breaking but powerful narrative of Ambujakshan, a dalit leader.
Produced by: Prof. Antony Palackal
Edited and Directed by: Prof. Wesley Shrum
Narrated by: Ambujakshan, Dalit Leader