India, May 24 -- In 2003, Kerala saw the Muthanga uprising, which saw an Adivasi protest in Wayanad turn into a violent clash between the police and the tribals. It resulted in numerous deaths and became an event that was a stain in the history of Kerala. The incident was rooted in long-standing grievances of the Adivasi communities, particularly over land rights, forest access, and broken promises by the government. This incident became a turning point in Kerala's tribal movement and led to wider debates about Adivasi autonomy, forest rights, and land reform. Director Anuraj Manohar was inspired by this true story and wrote Narivetta (Leopard Hunt), which depicts the power play between police and politics.

Living in Kuttanad, 28-year-ol...