Nilesh Khandale
Tukaram Bhaurao Sathe, affectionately known as Sahitya Samrat Annabhau Sathe (1920-1969), was a prominent Indian Marathi writer, poet, and social activist who made enduring contributions to Marathi literature. Born into a Dalit family in Maharashtra, he witnessed the social and economic disparities prevalent in society. Annabhau Sathe is renowned for his prolific literary contributions, which include novels, short stories, poetry, and songs, all of which shed light on the struggles faced by marginalized and oppressed communities, especially Dalits and laborers. His writing style, characterized by simplicity and folkloric narrative forms like powada and lavani, made his work accessible to a wide audience. Beyond literature, Annabhau Sathe was actively involved in social and political initiatives aimed at empowering marginalized groups. He remains an icon not only for Dalits but for all of Maharashtra. Annabhau Sathe’s legacy lives on through not only a commemorative postage stamp or a statue in Moscow, but also through his profound influence on Indian cinema, particularly Marathi films, where his writings and social concerns have inspired filmmakers to adapt his works and incorporate his ideas, powerful storytelling and social commentary within his writings, into works of cinematic art. Furthermore, his contributions to folk music and lavani dance, along with his socially and politically charged songs, have significantly enriched Marathi film music.
Throughout his writings whether it’s through his short stories, songs, ballads or any other form of literary writings one can see great urge for claiming human personality, human agency especially for the oppressed. The dignity he has bestowed upon all the heroic characters from his stories was only natural (and not forcefitted or thrusted on to those oppressed) for he always said that his writings are mere reflection of his people whom he sees around day to day basis–only underlining how he viewed the fellow oppressed and claimed and shared their humanity through his stories. Annabhau was that rare combination of literary genius with complete integrity and commitment to people where he came from and more to humanity at large. That’s why his stories continue to resonate across time and space and they shall continue to inspire people across geography wherever justice is aspired for and injustice is detested.
Annabhau Sathe’s writings, songs, the social themes of his works, and the cultural influence of his writings have paved the way and shaped the content and themes of Marathi cinema. His writings continue to serve as a source of inspiration for filmmakers who aim to shed light on social issues, promote cultural diversity, and engage with the struggles of marginalized communities through the medium of film.
Our Sahitya Samrat Annabhau Sathe International Short Film Festival (SAIFF) serves as a heartfelt tribute to honor his enduring legacy, an endeavor driven by our commitment to amplify voices that mirror his unwavering dedication to change, justice, and the timeless potency of storytelling. We invite you to join us in paying homage to his spirit as we delve into captivating narratives that both resonate with and inspire the profound transformations within the human soul.
Here we are inviting entries for Sahitya Samrat Annabhau Sathe International Short Film Festival (SAIFF) – 2023, Last date of submission is 15th October 2023.
The screening of the shortlisted ones shall be held on 4th and 5th November 2023 at National Film Archive (NFAI), Law college road, Pune.
And subsequently the winners shall be declared on 5th November in the award ceremony.
So what are you waiting for; come and join this vibrant film festival and let your creativity reach thousands.
For any enquiries please contact:
8482951961 \ 7709551125
www.saiffpune.com
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Nilesh Khandale is a filmaker, media & event manager, and social activist.
