Short Stream | Melodies of Sundari

The Enigmatic Arabian Sea in “Songs of Sundari”

A Coastal Narrative

In the short film Songs of Sundari, director Sudarshan Sawant transports viewers to the crowded and vibrant waterways of the Versova-Madh creek, showcasing the Arabian Sea’s multifaceted identity. A blend of mystique, livelihood, and a hub of divinity, the film emerges at a crucial time when the construction of a ₹2,395 crore bridge connecting Versova to Madh Island is underway. This infrastructural change promises to reduce travel time dramatically, shifting the experience of the local communities, especially the Koli fisherfolk.

Impact on the Koli Community

The bridge’s development will shorten the travel time from 90 minutes to just 5 minutes, posing a dire threat to the Koli community who have called these waters home for generations. This indigenous population relies heavily on the sea for their livelihoods through fishing and ferry services. With the advent of this new structure, the ferry businesses are poised for a significant decline, pushing the Kolis further into the margins of Mumbai’s rapid urban transformation.

Poignant Reflections

Sawant’s film does not preach; rather, it serves as a poetic meditation on the changing dynamics of the sea. As a voice in the film poignantly remarks, “When nature changes, it doesn’t betray itself.” This line encapsulates the stark reality that the sea’s grace is slowly fading amidst infrastructural advancements that prioritize convenience over traditional ways of life.

Sawant’s Filmmaking Journey

Sudarshan Sawant, a 36-year-old filmmaker and FTII graduate, has an intrinsic connection to the landscape he documents. Living on Madh Island, he decided to explore the universe surrounding his daily ferry commute, crafting Songs of Sundari—the first installment of a proposed Boat trilogy. With plans for subsequent films focused on Thane Creek and another site in Navi Mumbai, his passion for storytelling shines through.

Artistry in Storytelling

In Songs of Sundari, the true protagonists are the sea and the weary boats navigating its waters. Sawant captures the essence of life around the creek, documenting the hustle against the backdrop of a landscape increasingly marred by industrial encroachment. The visuals lack a linear narrative but are rich in emotional weight, portraying the tension between nature and development.

Evocative Sound Design

Sawant’s expertise in sound further elevates the film’s impact. Avoiding direct interviews, he allows the audience to draw their own conclusions through the film’s auditory landscape. The combination of haunting melodies, including an evocative hum by Sneha Sundar, creates a sensory experience that lingers long after viewing.

Voices of Innocence

A notable aspect of the film is its use of childlike narration to address the profound changes experienced in the sea. A young boy articulates his observations succinctly, providing an unfiltered perspective free from societal judgments. His revelations about the lack of fish due to industrial activity evoke a sense of loss, emphasizing the depth of the sea’s plight.

Visual Poetics

The film’s visual language is striking. Night scenes envelop the narrative in mystery, while day sequences are often over-exposed to capture the chaotic essence of construction sites. The titular boat, named Sundari, serves as a metaphor for resilience, embodying the delicate balance between community and the looming threat of development.

Festival Recognition

Songs of Sundari has garnered international attention, being showcased at prestigious festivals, including Vision du Réel in Switzerland and the Beijing International Short Film Festival. Each screening evokes rich discussions about cultural preservation amidst progress.

Artistic Vision and Goals

The modest budget of ₹3 lakhs reflects Sawant’s dedication, encapsulating a nuanced exploration of life’s intricacies along the Arabian Sea. With the film presented in Marathi and English subtitles, it aims to resonate across linguistic boundaries, inviting numerous viewers to witness the silent dialogues of the waters.

Through thoughtful storytelling and a nuanced portrayal of community, Songs of Sundari resonates deeply with contemporary issues, making it a vital cinematic piece in today’s rapidly evolving urban landscape.