First Malayalam Film !!better!! -

This was revolutionary. In a deeply hierarchical society, Daniel dared to place a caste dilemma at the heart of his narrative. He was using the most modern medium to confront the most ancient prejudices. On November 7, 1930 (some sources cite October 23, 1928, but 1930 is the widely accepted premiere date for the final cut), Vigathakumaran premiered at the Capitol Theatre in Thiruvananthapuram. The house was packed with elites, royalty, and the curious.

For J. C. Daniel, it was a challenge.

Born into a wealthy Christian family in Agasteeswaram (now in Tamil Nadu), Daniel was a true Renaissance man. He had traveled, seen the world, and recognized cinema's power as a storytelling medium. He was determined to create a film "of the people, by the people," rooted in Malayali sensibility. first malayalam film