AAdoor Gopala Krishnan
BM.T. Vasudevan Nair
CJ.C. Daniel
DPrem Nazir
Answer:
C. J.C. Daniel
Read Explanation:
The First Malayalam Film (Vigathakumaran):
J. C. Daniel produced, directed, wrote, and starred in the first-ever Malayalam motion picture, titled Vigathakumaran (The Lost Child), which was released on November 7, 1928.
Since it was the era of silent films, Vigathakumaran had no synchronized sound or dialogues.
Establishing the First Studio:
In 1926, he established the very first film studio in Kerala, named The Travancore National Pictures, located in Thiruvananthapuram (Trivandrum). He traveled to Madras (now Chennai) and Bombay (now Mumbai) to learn film production techniques and acquire equipment.
Social Challenges and Inclusivity:
Daniel faced immense social backlash during the making of his film. He cast a lower-caste woman named P. K. Rosy as the female lead (who played the role of a Nair woman). This caused widespread outrage among the orthodox society of the time, leading to protests, the burning of the theater screen during the premiere, and Rosy being forced to flee the town.
Tragic End and Financial Ruin:
Vigathakumaran was a financial failure, leaving Daniel in heavy debt. He had to sell his studio and equipment to pay off his creditors. He spent the rest of his life in poverty and obscurity, working as a dentist, and passed away in 1975 without receiving any recognition during his lifetime.
Legacy and Modern Recognition
The J. C. Daniel Award:
Belatedly recognizing his monumental contribution, the Government of Kerala instituted the J. C. Daniel Award in 1992. It is now presented annually as Kerala's highest award in cinema for lifetime achievements and outstanding contributions to Malayalam cinema.
Biopic (Celluloid):
In 2013, renowned director Kamal made a biographical film titled Celluloid, starring Prithviraj Sukumaran as J. C. Daniel. The movie beautifully depicted his struggles, his passion for cinema, and how he rightfully earned the title "Father of Malayalam Cinema."