101-458: Madhupal Kannambathu is an Indian actor, director, and screenwriter who works in Malayalam cinema . Madhupal made his acting debut with Kashmeeram in 1994 and his directorial debut with Thalappavu (2008), which was about Arikkad Varghese and won several awards in 2008. Madhupal is a native of Kozhikode and took post graduation in commerce. His association with cinema dates back to when he
202-585: A naval battle fought during the reign of Narasimhavarman II (680-720 CE), which resulted in the capture of the territory by the Pallavas of Kanchi in the late 7th century CE. Epigraphs indicate the capture of the region of Kavadi Dvepa (presumably Kavaratti) by the Kadambas in the 10th century CE. In the 11th century CE, the islands came under the rule of the Cholas . Chola inscriptions from Thanjavur , indicate that
303-478: A neorealistic film, drew inspiration from Italian neorealism . Padayottam (1982) is India's first indigenously produced 70 mm film , while My Dear Kuttichathan (1984) is India's first 3D film. O' Faby (1993) is India's first Live action / animation hybrid film. Amma Ariyan (1986) is the first film made in India with money collected from the public. It was produced by Odessa Collective, founded by
404-548: A solar power plant was commissioned to augment the power generation capacity. The world's first ever experimental low-temperature thermal desalination plant opened in Kavaratti in 2005, with a projected daily production capacity of 100,000 litres of potable water from seawater. The plant utilises the temperature difference between warm surface seawater and much colder seawater at about 500 m (1,600 ft) depth to generate potable water as well as energy. The technology
505-635: A tropical monsoon climate , bordering on a tropical savanna climate . The weather is warm throughout the year with temperatures ranging from 20 to 32 degree Celsius . While tropical cyclones arising in the Arabian Sea rarely strike the islands due to its smaller size, winds and waves associated with them could alter the features of the islands considerably. Lakshadweep is part of the Maldives-Lakshadweep-Chagos Archipelago tropical moist forests ecoregion . There are no forests on
606-830: A Certificate of Merit at the Chicago International Film Festival , and a gold medal at the Cannes Film Festival for Best Cinematography. Swaham (1994) won the Bronze Rosa Camuna at the Bergamo Film Meeting in Italy . Malayalam cinema has also produced India's first 3D film , My Dear Kuttichathan (1984). The first CinemaScope film produced in Malayalam was Thacholi Ambu (1978). Active Malayalam film production did not take place until
707-612: A blockbuster hit Narasimham starring Mohanlal . In 2001 came the world's first film with only one actor in the cast, The Guard . Slapstick comedy was the predominant theme of the films of this era. C.I.D. Moosa (2003) by Johny Antony , Meesa Madhavan (2002) by Lal Jose and Kunjikoonan (2002) directed by Sasi Shanker are examples. Sequels to a number of successful films were made. Some movies were examples of exemplary film making, such as Meghamalhar , Madhuranombarakattu , Nandanam , Perumazhakkalam , and Kaazhcha . In 2008, Malayalam movie artists came together in
808-422: A distinct style of Malayalam music. Kamukara Purushotaman, Mehboob, Kozhikode Abdul Kader , AM Raja, P. B. Sreenivas , K. P. Udayabhanu , Santha P. Nair , P. Leela , S. Janaki , P. Susheela , B. Vasantha, Renuka, and Jikki were the most prominent singers of the 1950s. The drama artist and school teacher Muthukulam Raghavan Pillai lent many of his skills to the cinema in this period. Ramu Kariat , one of
909-679: A mid the COVID-19 lockdown, Sufiyum Sujatayum , starring Jayasurya and Aditi Rao Hydari , has become the first Malayalam film to be released on the Amazon Prime Video ( OTT ) platform as theatres remain shut in Kerala due to the pandemic. In 2021, Drishyam 2 , Nayattu , Kala , Joji , The Great Indian Kitchen and Malik made their list in the highest rated 2021 movies in Imdb . Malayalam Cinema's first ever original superhero Minnal Murali
1010-413: A plan in early 2024 to extend the runway to enable it to handle larger narrow body aircraft and expand the infrastructure to convert the airport into dual-use for civilian and military purposes. The construction of a greenfield airport at Minicoy Island was also proposed. Two helicopters are presently operated by Pawan Hans and are utilised for passenger transport and emergency medical evacuation from
1111-427: A population of 64,473 as per the 2011 census across the ten inhabited islands. There is a 132 km (82 mi) long coastline with a lagoon area of 4,200 km (1,600 sq mi), territorial waters of 20,000 km (7,700 sq mi) and an exclusive economic zone of 400,000 km (150,000 sq mi). Lakshadweep is the northernmost island group of the exposed undersea mountain range,
SECTION 10
#17329310320311212-452: A reason. In 2019, Lucifer became the highest grossing Malayalam film of all time. Lucifer became the highest grossing Indian film in Dubai. The film collected a final gross of 2000 million at the box office. In November 2020, Lijo Jose Pellissery 's film Jallikattu was selected as India's submission for Oscar for best foreign language film making as third Malayalam film as entry. In 2020
1313-660: A series of comedy films produced between the late 1980s and late 1990s made actors like Jagadish , Siddique , Mukesh , Sreenivasan and Jayaram became very popular for their comedy roles. This series of comedy films begun in the late 1980s and early 1990s, with comedy films by Sathyan Anthikad and Siddique-Lal , like Ponmuttayidunna Tharavu , Mazhavilkavadi , Ramji Rao Speaking , Thalayana Manthram , In Harihar Nagar , and Godfather , and some of them went on to be remade by other directors in Tamil, Hindi, Telugu, and other languages. The success of In Harihar Nagar led to
1414-607: A source of coir for their industries. The native islanders revolted against the Portuguese and expelled them in 1545 CE. In the mid 16th century CE, all inhabited islands were conferred as jagir (land grant) to the ruling family of Kannur by the Chirakkal family of Kolathiri to grant protection from the Portuguese . The Aminidivi islands came under the rule of Tipu Sultan of Mysore Kingdom in 1787 CE and were later annexed to
1515-414: A tool to revitalise society. A noted director, Aravindan, was famous in Kerala as a cartoonist before he started making films. His important movies include Kanchana Sita (1977), Thampu (1978), Kummatty (1979), Chidambaram (1985), Oridathu (1986), and Vasthuhara (1990). The 1970s also saw the emergence of the notable director P. G. Viswambharan with his debut film Ozhukinethire and
1616-682: A total land area of approximately 32.62 km (12.59 sq mi) and only ten of the islands are inhabited. The islands are located between the Arabian Sea to the west and the Laccadive Sea to the east, about 220–440 km (140–270 mi) off the Malabar Coast of mainland India. The territory is divided into three island subgroups: the Amindivi islands in the north, the Laccadive islands in
1717-487: A total of 88 members across islands. These panchayats are combined to form a district panchayat, which has 26 elected members including the chairpersons of the ten village panchayats and the Member of Parliament for Lakshadweep Lok Sabha Constituency . The territory is also divided into five community development blocks: Kavaratti, Amini, Andrott, Minicoy and Kiltan, each administered by Collector-cum-Development Commissioner, who
1818-430: A vast lagoon area and an exclusive economic zone of 400,000 km (150,000 sq mi), fishing is a major industry. The estimated annual production is 21,016 tonnes of which 60% is tuna and related fishes. About 60% of the total production is converted to dried products and 40% is allocated for local consumption. Commercial fishing is concentrated around 11 islands with skipjack tuna and yellowfin tuna being
1919-491: Is attributed to wide critical acclaim, themes that resonated with the audience and tapping into other state markets. Malayalam independent cinema is a subsect of the Malayalam cinema which is not intended for commercial purposes. Major independent films are premiered through International film festival of Kerala . The films conveys key cultural and social messages in Kerala. Notable films are Family by Don Palathara , Chavittu by Rahman brothers Newspaper Boy (1955),
2020-417: Is credited as the father of Malayalam cinema. Daniel founded the first film studio, The Travancore National Pictures Limited, in Kerala. A second film, Marthanda Varma , based on the novel by C. V. Raman Pillai , was produced by R. Sundar Raj Nadar in 1933. However, after only being shown for four days, the film prints were confiscated due to a legal battle over copyright. The first talkie in Malayalam
2121-620: Is derived from Lakṣadvīpa meaning "one hundred thousand islands," presumably from Sanskrit or Malayalam . Laccadive seems to be the result of the Anglicization of the given name during the British Raj . Amindivi derives its name from the Amindivi people, who were the earliest inhabitants of the Amini Island . The native name of the Minicoy Island is Maliku , and the given name is
SECTION 20
#17329310320312222-597: Is in charge of revenue and land settlement in their respective block. The commissioner also serves as a District magistrate and is assisted by an additional district magistrate and ten executive magistrates for enforcement of law and order. The administrator acts as the Inspector General of Police and has command and control of the Lakshadweep Police, which has a sanctioned strength of 349 personnel across nine police stations . The territory elects one member to
2323-554: Is one of the four coral reef regions in India. Cetacean diversity off the Lakshadweep Islands and in adjacent areas include various whales (e.g., pygmy blue , Bryde's , sperm , orca , pilot whale ), and dolphins . The commonly seen are introduced cattle and poultry . Other notable marine fauna include sharks , bonitos , tunas , snappers , flying fish , Manta rays , octopuses , crabs , and turtles . There are 101 species of birds, common amongst them include
2424-562: Is populated by the Mahls , an ethnic group also resident in the Maldives . English is the official language of the union territory. Jeseri (also known as Dweep Basha ), a dialect of Malayalam , is widely spoken language in the Amindivi and Laccadive islands. Mahl , a dialect of Dhivehi , is spoken in Minicoy. There are minor variations of the same dialect across islands. Malayalam, written in
2525-472: Is the director of Veena Vaadanam , the first documentary film in India shot with the same movie capture medium. Villain (2017) is the first Indian film to be shot entirely in 8K resolution . Vazhiye (2022) is the first found footage film of Malayalam Cinema. Lakshadweep Lakshadweep ( Malayalam: [lɐkʂɐd̪βʷiːbɨ̆] ) is a union territory of India. It is an archipelago of 36 islands divided into three island subgroups:
2626-559: Is the northernmost island group of the exposed undersea mountain range, the Chagos-Lakshadweep Ridge . While there are no conclusive theories about the formation of the atolls, Charles Darwin proposed in 1842 CE that the subsidence of a volcanic island resulted in the formation of a fringing reef, which grew upwards with continual subsidence. The individual islands are small, with none of them measuring more than 1 mi (1.6 km) across. Most inhabited islands are situated on
2727-425: The 2004 Indian Ocean earthquake ; he is associated with Santhigiri Ashram, Thiruvananthapuram as Assistant General Convener Advisory Committee. He is a former Member of Kerala Chalachithra Academy (the organizers of IFFK), Member of Kerala Folklore Academy (Kerala state Govt. organisation) and Kerala Children's Film Society (Kerala state government organisation). His second film, Ozhimuri ( A Document of Separation ),
2828-485: The 2011 census , Lakshadweep has a population of 64,473, consisting of 33,123 (51.3%) males and 31,350 (48.7%) females, and had a sex ratio of 946 females per 1,000 males in 2011. It also recorded the highest sex ratio at birth amongst Indian territories as per the National Family Health Survey (NFHS) in 2021. As per the 2011 census, there were a total of 11,574 households and about 50,332 (78%) of
2929-592: The Academy Awards to be considered for nomination in the Best Foreign Film category in 2011. Christian Brothers (2011) was released worldwide with a total of 310 prints on 18 March; it went to 154 centres in Kerala, 90 centres outside Kerala and 80 centres overseas, making it the widest release for a Malayalam film at that time. This record was later broken by Peruchazhi (2014), which released in 500 screens worldwide on 29 August. Drishyam (2013) became
3030-654: The Amindivi Islands in the north, the Laccadive Islands (separated from Amindivi roughly by the 11th parallel north ), and the atoll of Minicoy to the south of the Nine Degree Channel . The islands are located between the Arabian Sea to the west and the Laccadive Sea to the east, about 220–440 km (140–270 mi) off the Malabar Coast of mainland India. The islands occupy a total land area of approximately 32.62 km (12.59 sq mi) with
3131-717: The British Film Institute award. The year 1981 also saw the rise of actor Mammootty through the movie Sphodanam directed by P. G. Viswambharan . In the 1980s Padmarajan made some of the landmark motion pictures in Malayalam cinema, including masterpieces like Oridathoru Phayalvaan (1981), Koodevide (1983), Thinkalaazhcha Nalla Divasam (1985), Arappatta Kettiya Gramathil (1986), Namukku Parkkan Munthirithoppukal (1986), Thoovanathumbikal (1987), Moonnam Pakkam (1988), Innale (1989) and Season (1989). He wrote several short stories that were unique in content and presentation. His novels handled
Madhupal - Misplaced Pages Continue
3232-641: The British Raj in 1799 CE after the Fourth Anglo-Mysore War . The rest of the islands remained under the suzerainty of the Arakkal family in return for a payment of annual tribute to the British. The British took over the administration of these islands in 1908 CE, citing the nonpayment of taxes, and attached it to the Madras Presidency . After Indian Independence from colonial British rule in 1947,
3333-526: The Chagos-Lakshadweep Ridge . The entire union territory is administered as a single district with Kavaratti as its capital. Archaeological evidence from Kalpeni indicates human settlement in the region from at least 1500 BCE with early reference to the islands in the Buddhist Jataka tales from the 3rd century BCE and the Tamil Sangam literature Patiṟṟuppattu . The region was controlled by
3434-611: The Cheras in the Sangam period (3rd century BCE to 3rd century CE) and later by the Pallavas . Islam is presumed to have been brought in the 7th century by the arrival of Muslims . In the 11th century CE, the region was under influence of the Chola kingdom and formed a part of the trade route that connected the Middle East with South Asia . It came under the influence of the Portuguese briefly in
3535-618: The Malayalam script , was introduced as the primary language of Lakshadweep during the British Raj. This policy has been continued since independence, with Malayalam serving as a link language on all islands, including Minicoy. Previously, a type of Arabic script , known as the Ponnani or Arabi Malayalam script , was used as the writing system. The economy is dependent on agriculture , fishery , and tourism . As of 2013 , there were 72 registered micro and small industries majorly involved in
3636-662: The National Film Awards , including 14 for Best Actor , 6 for Best Actress , 13 for Best Film , and 13 for Best Director . Malayalam cinema garnered international recognition, with Elippathayam (1982) winning the Sutherland Trophy at the London Film Festival , and being named the Most Original Imaginative Film of 1982 by the British Film Institute . Additionally, Marana Simhasanam won
3737-469: The brown noddy and sooty tern and water birds such as herons , teals , and gulls . Pitti island is a declared bird sanctuary and an important breeding place for sea turtles and a number of pelagic birds including the brown noddy, lesser crested tern , and greater crested tern . Lakshadweep is a Union Territory and is governed by an administrator on behalf of the Government of India. It
3838-677: The coast of Damirica as a source of a turtle shell . In 2nd century CE, Greek historian Ptolemy mentions 1378 islands located opposite to Taprobane (Sri Lanka) with the names of some of the islands given as Kanathara ( Kavaratti ), Argidion ( Agatti ), Ammine ( Amini ), and Monache ( Minicoy ). The islands later became part of a trade route with the Roman empire , with archeological evidence from as early as 2nd century CE obtained from Kadamath and Androth islands. Other travelers and historians such as Ammianus Marcellinus (4th century CE), Faxian (5th century CE), and Cosmas (6th century CE) mention
3939-637: The lower house of the Indian parliament , the Lok Sabha . Lakshadweep is a reserved constituency for Scheduled Tribes . The union territory falls under the judicial jurisdiction of the Kerala High Court at Kochi , and has a system of lower courts under its authority. There is a district and sessions court in Kavaratti (established in 1997) and two munsiff courts in Andrott and Amini islands. According to
4040-465: The 1960s and became famous later. The 70s saw the emergence of a new wave of cinema in Malayalam. The growth of the film society movement in Kerala introduced the works of the French and Italian New Wave directors to the discerning Malayali film enthusiasts. Adoor Gopalakrishnan 's first film, Swayamvaram (1972), brought Malayalam cinema to the international film arena. In 1973 M. T. Vasudevan Nair , who
4141-482: The 1970s were Mankada Ravi Varma for Swayamvaram (1972), P. S. Nivas for Mohiniyattam (1977), and Shaji N. Karun for Thampu (1979). John Abraham , K. R. Mohanan , K. G. George , and G. S. Panikkar were products of the Pune Film Institute who made significant contributions. During the late 1970s, some young artists started seeing Malayalam cinema as a medium of expression and thought of it as
Madhupal - Misplaced Pages Continue
4242-464: The 1990s and 2000s and have introduced several new trends to the Malayalam industry. While the new generation's formats and styles are deeply influenced by global and Indian trends, their themes are firmly rooted in Malayali life and mindscapes. The new generation also helped the Malayalam film industry regain its past glory. Salim Ahamed 's Adaminte Makan Abu was chosen as India's official entry to
4343-636: The Anglicized version derived from the Nicobarese word Minikaa-raajje (meaning "land of the cannibals") as the island was known then in the Andaman and Nicobar . The early human migration from Africa to the Andaman Islands through India was thought by scientists to include Lakshadweep because of its location between Africa and the southwestern region of India. However, later genetic studies indicated that
4444-465: The East (separated from Amindivi by the 11th parallel north ), and the atoll of Minicoy to the south of the Nine Degree Channel . The islands have a 132 km (82 mi) long coastline with a lagoon area of 4,200 km (1,600 sq mi), territorial waters of 20,000 km (7,700 sq mi), and an exclusive economic zone of 400,000 km (150,000 sq mi). Lakshadweep
4545-607: The Lakshadweep islands on 1 November 1973. The headquarters of the union territory remained at Kozhikode until 1964, when the seat of the Administrator was shifted to Kavaratti. The territory has developed into a key Indian naval establishment due to its strategic location near vital shipping lanes from India to the Middle East . Lakshadweep is an archipelago of 36 islands and islets that includes 12 atolls , three reefs , and five submerged banks . The islands occupy
4646-541: The Malayalm filim industry . P.J. Cherian introduced play-back singing in Malayalam cinema. The lyrics of the film written by G. Sankara Kurup became popular. Udaya Studios ' Vellinakshatram (1949) was the first movie with audio to be made completely in Kerala. Malayalam cinema has always taken its themes from relevant social issues and has been interwoven with material from literature , drama , and politics since its inception. One such film, Jeevitha Nouka (1951),
4747-431: The current alcohol laws of India , alcoholic beverage consumption is not permitted on the islands, except on Bangaram. In 2024, the government proposed further programmes to improve infrastructure and promote tourism. The potential negative effects of tourism on the environment and ecosystem of the islands is a subject of debate. There is no single power grid that connects Lakshadweep; independent power houses cater to
4848-570: The darkest emotions and considered as classics. Most plots were nascent for that age literature. All works were so cinematic and can be easily visualised to the celluloid version. K. G. George released films including Yavanika and Adaminte Vaariyellu . This was the period during which script writer M. T. Vasudevan Nair started teaming up with director Hariharan to produce works like Panchagni , Nakhakshathangal , Aranyakam and Oru Vadakkan Veeragatha . John Abraham 's films such as Amma Ariyaan addressed people's issues and raised
4949-407: The director John Abraham and friends. The money was raised by collecting donations and screening Charlie Chaplin 's film The Kid . Moonnamathoral (2006) is the first Indian film to be shot and distributed in digital format . Jalachhayam (2010) is the first Indian feature film shot entirely on a Camera phone and it was also an experimental film directed by Sathish Kalathil who
5050-496: The directors of Neelakuyil (along with P. Bhaskaran), went on to become a successful director in the 1960s and 1970s. P. Bhaskaran directed many acclaimed and hit films in the 1960s and 70s. The cameraman of Neelakkuyil , A. Vincent , also became a noted director of the 1960s and 1970s. Notable films of this decade include Odayil Ninnu , Bhargavi Nilayam (1964), Chemmeen (1965), Murappennu (1965) and Iruttinte Athmavu (1966). Malayalam cinema's first colour film
5151-500: The eastern side of Lakshadweep and away from the low-lying lagoons to the West. The soil is generally sandy, derived from coral. According to a 2017 report, the Parali I island of Bangaram atoll has eroded and is completely inundated. Four other islands in the atoll also show various degrees of erosion: Parali II (80%), Thinnakara (14.4%), Parali III (11.4%), and Bangaram (9.9%). The islands have
SECTION 50
#17329310320315252-572: The fight against obscurantist beliefs, the degeneration of the feudal class, and the break-up of the joint-family system. In the 1960s, M. Krishnan Nair , Kunchacko and P. Subramaniam were the leading Malayali producers. Thikkurusi Sukumaran Nair, Prem Nazir, Sathyan, Madhu, Adoor Bhasi, Bahadur, S.P. Pillai, K.P. Ummer, Kottarakara Sreedharan Nair, Raghavan, G.K. Pillai, Muthukulam, Joseprakash, Paravur Bharatan, Muthayya, Shankaradi, Govindankutty, K.R. Vijaya, Padmini, Ragini, Sharada, Sheela, Ambika, Jayabharathi, Arumula Ponnamma and Sadahna were among
5353-783: The film Kashmeeram and the Second Best Actor for his role of Hari in the series on MT Kathakal , called Kazhcha , telecast on Amritha TV. He assisted Jude Attipetty in the direction of Shararandal , a 13-part serial, written by National Award-winning writer P. F. Mathews . He also wrote the screenplay and dialogue for the Malayalam movie Bharatheeyam , which was released in 1997. Films he has acted in include Kashmeeram (1994), Soosanna , Agnisakshi , Guru , Made in USA , Rishivamsam , Vardhakyapuraanam , Ravanaprabhu , Twenty-Twenty , Freekick (Hindi), Nothing but Life (English), and Oru naal Oru Kanavu (Tamil). His first directorial venture
5454-556: The finance directly from people. The period had movies with humour from directors like Priyadarshan , Sathyan Anthikad , Kamal and Siddique-Lal . Piravi (1989) by Shaji N. Karun was the first Malayalam film to win the Caméra d'Or -Mention at the Cannes Film Festival. Ratheesh and Sukumaran also were leading stars in the industry in the early eighties. By the end of 80s, Mammooty and Mohanlal also established themselves as
5555-490: The first Malayalam film to cross the 500 million mark at the box office. The film was critically acclaimed and was remade in four languages. Later, in 2016, Pulimurugan directed by Vyshak became the first Malayalam film to cross the 1 billion mark at the box office. In recent years, Malayalam films have gained popularity in Sri Lanka, with fans citing cultural similarities between Sinhalese people and Malayalis as
5656-662: The first permanent theatre in Kerala was established in Thrissur town by Kattookkaran and was called the Jose Electrical Bioscope , now Jos Theatre . The first film made in Malayalam was Vigathakumaran . Production started in 1928, and it was released at the Capitol Theatre in Thiruvananthapuram on 23 October 1930. It was produced and directed by J. C. Daniel , a businessman with no prior film experience, who
5757-422: The first quarter. Malayalam Cinema achieved its first calendar year ₹1000 crore worldwide gross by May. As of 24 May, total worldwide box office gross stood at ₹1030 crores, including ₹660 crores from India and ₹370 from overseas. The films that led the success story were Manjummel Boys , Aadujeevitham , Premalu , and Aavesham , all of which earned over ₹100 crores at worldwide box office. The success
5858-713: The government unveiled a plan to develop three ports at Androth, Kalpeni and Kadamath islands as a part of the Sagar Mala project . The ten inhabited island each have a minor port. There are fifteen lighthouses on the islands, with the Minicoy Island Lighthouse (built in 1885) being the first modern lighthouse. The Indian Navy operates the INS Dweeprakshak naval base under the Southern Naval Command , commissioned in 2012. The first public school
5959-510: The island. Tamil Sangam literature Patiṟṟuppattu mentions that the region was ruled by the Cheras , one of the three kingdoms of ancient Tamilakam , in the Sangam period (3rd century BCE to 3rd century CE). The islands have been known to sailors since at least 1st century CE, as indicated in the Periplus of the Erythraean Sea . It contains an anonymous reference to the islands off
6060-560: The islands are descendants of migrants from the Malabar coast of Southwest India and are ethnically similar to the Mappilas of Kerala . According to local tradition, Islam was brought to the islands by Ubaidullah in 661 CE. Although Islam is the predominant religion currently, the earliest settlers were probably Hindus, evidenced by the current social stratification and matrilineal kinship system in Lakshadweep. The southernmost island of Minicoy
6161-422: The islands are part of an archipelago of fewer islands. English is the designated official language while Jeseri , a dialect of Malayalam , is the widely spoken native language . Dhivehi is the most spoken language in the Minicoy Island . The region comes under the judicial jurisdiction of the Kerala High Court . Fishing and agriculture are the major occupations in the islands. The name Lakshadweep
SECTION 60
#17329310320316262-879: The islands became part of the Dominion of India , and later came under the administration of the Madras State after the Constitution of India was enacted in 1950. Following the States Reorganisation Act (1956) , the islands, which were earlier divided between the South Canara and Malabar districts of the Madras state, were organized into a separate union territory administered by the Government of India . The Laccadive, Minicoy, and Amindivi Islands were collectively renamed as
6363-539: The islands in 2018. The government is promoting tourism as a means to increase the income of the local population, with Bangaram and Kadmat islands being promoted as potential tourist destinations. To promote tourism, activities such as scuba diving , wind surfing , snorkelling , surfing , kayaking , canoeing , water skiing , sportfishing , yachting and night sea voyages have been established. Tourists require permission to visit Lakshadweep and foreign nationals are not permitted to visit certain islands. According to
6464-458: The islands in their writings. Local traditions attribute the first settlement on the islands to Cheraman Perumal , the last Chera king of Kerala, though no historical evidence exists apart from the presence of ancient Hindu social stratification . According to local tradition, Islam was brought to the islands by Ubaidullah in 661 CE, whose purported grave is located in the Andrott island. Inscriptions from Vayalur (in Tamil Nadu ) indicates
6565-408: The islands. As of 2019 , there are 228 km (142 mi) of paved roads and no railway in the territory. Additional roads have been planned, including a peripheral road at Kavaratti and beach front roads at Kadamath and Agatti islands. As of 2023 , seven ships operate passenger services between Kochi and the islands, with seasonal boat/ferry services available between islands. In 2024,
6666-883: The islands. Nearly 400 species of flowering plants have been documented, including three species of sea grasses Cymodocea isoetifolia , Syringodium isoetifolium and Thalassia hemprichii , other angiosperms such as Pandanus , Heliotropium foertherianum , Tournefortia argentea and Pemphis acidula , fungi , algae , and lichens . The common flora of the atolls include coconut groves and coastal shrubs such as Pemphis acidula , Cordia subcordata , Scaevola taccada , Thespesia populnea , Suriana maritima , Dodonaea viscosa , Guettarda speciosa , and seaweeds such as sea lettuces , Codium , and Hypena . There are over 600 recorded species of marine fishes, 78 species of corals , 82 species of seaweed , 52 species of crabs , 2 species of lobsters , 48 species of gastropods , and 12 species of bivalves . It
6767-550: The late 15th century CE before being ruled by the Arakkal kingdom , who were vassals of the Kolathiri Rajas of Kannur . The region was under the influence of the Mysore kingdom in the late 18th century and was later annexed to the British empire in 1799 CE. The islands became part of the Dominion of India following the Indian Independence in 1947 and was incorporated as a union territory in 1956. The name Lakshadweep means "one lakh islands" ( Lakṣadvīpa ; one hundred thousand islands) in Malayalam and Sanskrit , though
6868-1038: The leading actors in Malayalam. The mid of 80s saw the emergence of low-quality Malayalam softcore films made with fairly low budgets . They were remarked as B-grade films, and were certified as fit for adults only (A rated). These films emerged parallel with the mainstream Malayalam cinema. In 1986, roughly 14 of the 32-odd films released were classified as B-grade films. Some examples are Mathilukal (1990) directed by Adoor Gopalakrishnan , Kattukuthira (1990) directed by P. G. Viswambharan , Amaram (1991) directed by Bharathan , Ulladakkam (1992) directed by Kamal , Kilukkam (1991) directed by Priyadarshan , Kamaladalam (1992) by Sibi Malayil , Vidheyan (1993) by Adoor Gopalakrishnan , Devaasuram (1993) by I. V. Sasi , Manichitrathazhu (1993) by Fazil, Ponthan Mada (1993) by T. V. Chandran , Spadikam (1995) by Bhadran , Commissioner (1994) The King (1995) by Shaji Kailas , Hitler (1996) by Siddique and Desadanam (1997) by Jayaraj . Due to
6969-445: The majority of human ancestry in the islands derived from South Asia . Archaeological evidence from Kalpeni indicate the existence of human settlements in the region from at least 1500 BCE. The islands are mentioned in the Buddhist Jataka tales , dated to 3rd century CE. Archeological evidence indicates the spread of Buddhism to the islands during the time of Sanghmitra , the daughter of emperor Ashoka , presumed to have visited
7070-530: The more popular actors active in this period. During the 1950s, 1960s and 1970s, Kunchacko made significant contributions to Malayalam cinema, both as a producer and as director of some notable movies. He started Udaya Studios in Alappuzha in 1947, reducing the travel to Madras (Chennai) for film crew and actors. This boosted Malayalam film production in Kerala. Many directors sprang up in this period. P.N. Menon made Rosy and later Chemparanthi . G. Aravindan and Adoor Gopalakrishnan also started work in
7171-421: The multistar film Twenty:20 to raise funds for the AMMA. The 2000-2003 period also saw witnessed the Shakeela tharangam , that resulted in the series of production of low budget softporn films in Malayalam cinema . The continued failure of comedy films and the theater strikes in Kerala, that started in the early 2000s, were the major reasons behind the comeback of B-grade films in Malayalam. Around 57 of
7272-521: The mythical film Satyavan Savithri , which were well accepted. Also, commercial cinema in this period saw several worker-class themed films which mostly had M. G. Soman , Sukumaran and Sudheer in the lead followed by the emergence of a new genre of pure action-themed films, in a movement led by Jayan . However, this was short-lived, and almost ended when Jayan died while performing a stunt in Kolilakkam (1980). The Malayalam cinema of this period
7373-473: The only commercial varieties. The government runs a tuna canning factory in the islands. Fishing is carried out using mechanized fishing boats, traditional country crafts, and country crafts fitted with outboard motors. Tourism in Lakshadweep began in 1974, when the Bangaram atoll was opened for international tourism. According to government statistics, 10,435 domestic tourists and 1,313 foreign tourists visited
7474-539: The population lived in urban areas. As per the NSO survey in 2017, the literacy rate was 92.28%, the second highest amongst all Indian territories. As per the NFHS, the fertility rate was 1.4, significantly below the national average of 2.0. Islam (96.6%) is the major religion of people of the islands with Sunni Islam being the predominant denomination, followed by Hinduism (2.8%) and Christianity (0.5%). Most settlers of
7575-459: The power requirements of the islands. Minicoy was the first island to be electrified in 1962, followed by Kavaratti in 1964 and others later, with Bitra being the last island to be electrified in 1982. Two diesel generators were established in 1962, which generate about 51.6 Kilo Watts of power. As of 2012 , the islands have 41 diesel generators and 12 solar photovoltaic systems with a total installed capacity of 18.5 Mega Watts. In January 2024,
7676-526: The prestigious Caméra d'Or at the 1999 Cannes Film Festival . Several Malayalam films have been India's official entries for the Best Foreign Language Film category at the Academy Awards , including Rajiv Anchal 's Guru (1997), Salim Ahamed 's Adaminte Makan Abu (2011), Lijo Jose Pellissery 's Jallikkattu (2019) and Jude Anthany Joseph 's 2018 (2023). Other globally acclaimed films include Chemmeen (1965), which received
7777-436: The production of motion pictures in the Malayalam language , which is widely spoken in the state of Kerala and Lakshadweep islands of india. Malayalam cinema includes the commercial film industry, sometimes known as Mollywood, as well as independent cinema made in Malayalam. The first Malayalam feature film was Vigathakumaran , a silent film directed and produced by J. C. Daniel . Production started in 1928, and it
7878-537: The production of a series of comedy films in the early and mid-1990s. Swaham (1994), directed by Shaji N. Karun , was the first Malayalam film entry for the competition in the Cannes International Film Festival , where it was a nominee for the Palme d'Or . Murali Nair 's Marana Simhasanam later won the Caméra d'Or at the 1999 Cannes Film Festival . Guru (1997), directed by Rajiv Anchal ,
7979-418: The public sector, and the manufacture of food products and furniture . With a minimal arable land of 2.58 hectares, the major agriculture produce is coconuts. The major exports from Lakshadweep are coconut products including coconut fibre (coir) and fishes. The government runs five coir factories, five production demonstration centers, and seven curling units that produce coir fiber, yarn and mats. With
8080-462: The region was captured by Rajendra Chola I in 1018-19 CE. In the late 11th century CE, it became part of a small Hindu kingdom before being passed on to the Kingdom of Kannur in early 12th century CE. The islands are mentioned in the writings of travelers Marco Polo and Ibn Battuta in the 13th-14th century CE. In the late 15th century CE, the islands came under the control of the Portuguese as
8181-486: The second half of the 20th century: there were only two silent films, and three Malayalam-language films before 1947. With support from the Kerala state government production climbed from around 6 a year in the 1950s, to 30 a year in the 1960s, 40 a year in the 1970s, to 127 films in 1980. The first cinema hall in Kerala , with a manually operated film projector, was opened in Thrissur by Jose Kattookkaran in 1907. In 1913,
8282-460: The story of a printing press employee and his family being stricken with extreme poverty. The music took a turn away from the trend of copying Tamil and Hindi songs. The poets Tirunainaarkurichy Madhavan Nair – Thirunaiyarkurichy, P. Bhaskaran , O. N. V. Kurup , and Vayalar Ramavarma rose up in this period as film lyricists. Brother Lakshmanan, Dakshinamurthy , K. Raghavan , G. Devarajan , M. S. Baburaj , and Pukhenthey Velappan Nair started
8383-482: The total 89 films released in 2001 belonged to the soft-porn category and Shakeela featured in many of them . After several years of quality deterioration, Malayalam films saw the signs of massive resurgence after 2010 with the release of several experimental films (known as New Wave or New Generation films), mostly from new directors. New Wave is characterised by fresh and unusual themes and new narrative techniques. These films differ from conventional themes of
8484-506: Was Balan , released in 1938. It was directed by S. Nottani with a screenplay and songs written by Muthukulam Raghavan Pillai . It was produced by Modern Theatres at Salem in the neighbouring state of Tamil Nadu . Balan was followed by Gnanambika in 1940, which was directed by S. Nottani. Then came Prahlada in 1941, directed by K. Subramoniam of Madras and featuring Guru Gopinath and Thankamani Gopinath. Until 1947 most Malayalam films were made by Tamil producers, P. J. Cherian
8585-493: Was Kandam Bacha Coat (1961). Chemmeen (1965), directed by Ramu Kariat and based on a novel of the same name by Thakazhi Sivasankara Pillai , went on to become very popular and became the first South Indian film to win the National Film Award for Best Feature Film . Most of the films of the 1960s were animated by the nationalist and socialist projects and centered on issues relating to caste and class exploitation,
8686-726: Was a child in Palakkad . His father, Chengalath Madhava Menon, ran a movie theatre. Madhupal is also a short story writer in Malayalam. He has acted in more than 90 films in Malayalam, Tamil, English and Hindi, including lead roles. His short stories have been translated into English, Hindi, and Tamil, and have appeared in publications like Mathrubhumi , Madhyamam , and Bhashaposhini magazines. He started his career in film as an assistant director to eminent film makers like Bharath Gopi and Rajiv Anchal . Madhupal assisted Rajiv Anchal in Butterflies , Kashmeeram , Guru (which won national awards and
8787-493: Was a musical drama that spoke about the problems in a joint family. In 1954, the film Neelakuyil captured national interest by winning the President's silver medal. It was scripted by the well-known Malayalam novelist Uroob , and directed by P. Bhaskaran and Ramu Kariat . Newspaper Boy (1955) contained elements of Italian neorealism . This film is notable as the product of a group of amateur college filmmakers. It told
8888-458: Was by then recognised as an important author in Malayalam, directed his first film, Nirmalyam , which won the National Film Award for Best Feature Film . G. Aravindan followed Adoor 's lead with his Uttarayanam in 1974. K. P. Kumaran 's Adhithi (1974) was another film that was acclaimed by the critics. Cinematographers who won the National Award for their work on Malayalam films in
8989-450: Was characterised by detailed screenplays dealing with everyday life with a lucid narration of plot intermingling with humour and melancholy. This was aided by the cinematography and lighting. The films had warm background music. In 1981 Fazil directed Manjil Virinja Pookal the film also introduced then Romantic star Shankar (actor) and later actor Mohanlal to the world. Adoor Gopalakrishnan made Elippathayam in 1981. This movie won
9090-517: Was chosen as India's official entry to the Oscars to be considered for nomination in the Best Foreign Film category for that year, making it the first film in Malayalam to be chosen for Oscar nomination. Noted script writer A.K. Lohithadas made his directorial debut with Bhoothakkannadi , for which he won the Indira Gandhi Award for Best Debut Film of a Director . The millennium started with
9191-572: Was developed at the National Institute of Ocean Technology and the government has announced plans to build three more such plants. Mobile communication service is provided by state-owned BSNL across all inhabited islands and Airtel in Kavratti and Agatti islands. In 2020, the government announced a project to install under-sea fiber optic cable for high-speed mobile and internet connectivity between Kochi and 11 islands of Lakshadweep, which
9292-530: Was established in 1956 and constitutes a single Indian district . The headquarters of the union territory were at Kozhikode until 1964, when the seat of the administrator of the islands was shifted to Kavaratti. Since then, the administration secretariat is based in Kavaratti. The territory is divided into ten administrative sub-divisions headed by sub-divisional officers, except the Minicoy and Agatti islands which are headed by deputy collectors. The ten inhabited islands have village panchayats consisting of
9393-485: Was for television ( Akaasaththile Paravakal , telecast on Kairali Channel). Thalappavu was his big screen directorial debut; the film received the Kerala State Best Debutante Director Award and various other awards. Madhupal has ventured more and more into the world of letters and has published seven collections of short stories. He became engaged in several projects to help those affected by
9494-434: Was from Kannur , and his mother, Kannambath Rugmani Amma, is a native of Kozhikode. He is the eldest child of his parents, followed by three brothers and a sister. He now lives in Thiruvananthapuram with his family. AWARDS FOR PUBLISHED BOOKS He acts as a judge on the popular reality show Yuvatharam , telecast on Jaihind TV . Malayalam cinema Malayalam cinema is the segment of Indian cinema dedicated to
9595-474: Was inaugurated in January 2024. Post offices run by India Post provide mail service. Lakshadweep is served by four hospitals with 200 beds, four primary health centers, and 14 sub-health centers operated by the government. The only airport in the territory is Agatti Airport on Agatti island. The 1.2 km (0.75 mi) runway is capable of serving small turboprop aircraft. The government announced
9696-466: Was opened in Amini in 1904, followed by the establishment of elementary schools at Kiltan in 1911 and Kadmat in 1925. The first high schools were established in the 1960s in Amini and Kalpeni. As of 2023 , there are 50 schools catering to 8,350 students. There are four government colleges affiliated to Pondicherry University and two colleges and three university centers affiliated to Calicut University in
9797-654: Was released at the Capitol Theatre in Thiruvananthapuram on 23 October 1930. The first talkie in Malayalam was Balan (1938) directed by S. Nottani . During the 1920s, the Malayalam film industry was based in Thiruvananthapuram, although the film industry started to develop and flourish by the late 1940s. Later the industry shifted to Madras (now Chennai). By the late 1980s, the industry returned to Kerala, establishing Kochi as its hub with most production and post-production facilities located there. As of 2024, Malayalam cinema has earned numerous accolades at
9898-631: Was released through Netflix on 24 th December 2021. Tovino Thomas as Minnal Murali which was directed by Basil Joseph under Weekend Blockbusters gained great reviews by critics and became top watched Non-English movie on Netflix. It broke all records of Malayalam Cinema trailers on YouTube crossing 6 Million Views and 500K+ likes in 24 hours. in 2023 , disaster film 2018 was selected as India's submission for Oscar for best international film Malayalam Cinema enjoyed unprecedented box office success in early months of 2024, with worldwide box office collection of Malayalam films touching ₹900 crores in
9999-754: Was selected for Indian Panorama 2012 and the International Film Festival of Kerala 2012. Ozhimuri won the Kerala State Second Best Movie Award. Madhupal is a member of the board of directors of the Kerala State Film Development Corporation (KSFDC). Now Madhupal is appointed as the Chairman of The Kerala State Cultural Activists Welfare Fund Board Madhupal is married to Rekha. He has two daughters, Madhavi and Meenakshi. His father, Chengalath Madhava Menon,
10100-402: Was the first Malayali producer to venture into this field after JC Daniel Nadar. PJ Cherian produced Nirmala in 1948 with Joseph Cherian and Baby Joseph his son and daughter-in-law as hero and heroine. He also cast many other family members in other roles, trying to break the taboo that noble family people do not take up acting. Nirmala is the first movie which introduced play-back singing in
10201-649: Was the only entry to the Academy Awards from India in the year 1997), Made in USA (which had R. Madhavan in the lead), Nothing But Life (English, shot in Las Vegas) and the eminent actor Bharath Gopi in the film Yamanam (which won a National Award in 1991). He turned actor in Kashmeeram . It was a negative role and more of such roles came his way after that. He won the Critic's Award for Best Debutante Actor for his role in
#30969