Capturing the spirit of Deepavali on film

Deepavali, the Festival of Lights, holds profound significance for S. Prathap of Bentong beyond the customary oil lamps, delectable cuisine, and family reunions. Representing sacrifice, familial ties, and forgiveness, Prathap has been translating these core values into short films for the past five years. Collaborating with the Bentong Tamil Youth Bell Club, the 43-year-old storyteller has transformed his enthusiasm for filmmaking into a community-driven initiative, uniting local talents to tell tales of love, sacrifice, and unity.

Beginning in 2021, Prathap's initial endeavor involved a script and a small group of eager club members, marking his first foray as a filmmaker. After garnering interest in acting, Prathap directed a 20-minute Deepavali drama, his maiden cinematic venture.

Prathap passionately believes that Deepavali transcends the aforementioned traditions and delves into its authentic essence. He aims to transcend these festivities and capture the traditions alongside the genuine spirit of the celebration. With approximately 35 members from the club contributing to the productions, both in front of and behind the camera, Prathap has directed films focusing on a mother's unyielding love, an inmate's Deepavali experience with his family, the significance of friendship, and the true essence of the festival.

Most of his films have been shot in Bentong and Karak. Despite facing financial obstacles, Prathap has managed to secure sponsorships each year, with production costs averaging around RM5,000. His upcoming endeavor, "Anaiyaatha Deepam" (The Undying Lamp), features a cameo by Datuk Amizar Abu Adam, the pelangai assemblyman. Prathap intends to upload all his short films on social media, with a long-term goal of producing a feature-length Deepavali-themed film with a larger cast, seeking support from the National Film Development Corporation Malaysia.