Balachandra Menon on the tragedy of Roads

After his first documentary on deforestation and exploitation in Munnar, one of the most sought-after tourist destinations of Kerala, celebrated Malayalam actor-director Balachandra Menon is now ready with his new documentary titled Road Njangalude Tharavadu (Road is Our Right). This 25-minute documentary has a strong message to convey: the tragedy of roads in Kerala.

Road Njangalude Tharavadu is about how people use roads for all purposes except travelling on. For some people, the road is a place to settle scores, litter garbage, park vehicles and drive with impunity. These are just some of the reasons why accidents are increasing every day, Balachandra Menon said.

"Twelve people die every day in Kerala. It's easy to make sensational news of the accidents on roads but we need something concrete to be done. I am just trying to light a candle and draw the people's attention to the problem," he added.

It was not an easy task to film the conditions of our roads. He said that he had to camouflage the camera, travel on bullock carts and auto rickshaws to avoid public attention. Menon also revealed that after Road Njangalude Tharavadu, he will soon script his next documentary on alcoholism.