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GS Paper: GS1-01.Indian Culture- Salient aspects of Art Forms, Literature and Architecture from ancient to modern times.

  • Kathaprasangam: An Art Form’s Century-Long Journey

    Kathaprasangam

    Central Idea

    • Kathaprasangam began as a medium to narrate stories of oppression, untouchability, and human resilience.
    • Today, it finds a place of relevance and renewal in the digital age, captivating audiences, both young and old.

    Kathaprasangam

    • Kathaprasangam is a stage art form of Kerala, which was popular in the mid-twentieth century.
    • Kathaprasangam owes its inception to Kumaranasan (1873-1924), a Malayalam poet who aimed to educate and inspire underprivileged sections of society.
    • He sought to propagate the principles of Sree Narayana Guru and his poems.
    • It started a century ago, touching on themes of oppression, untouchability, and human triumphs.
    • It uses a blend of prose and song, accompanied by a harmonium and tabla, to retell stories.
    • Young performers compete in this art form, earning marks that influence their promotions.
    • It is celebrated for its ability to communicate with urgency and directness, addressing societal issues.

    Relevance in Modern Context

    • Kathaprasangam, born out of the fight against casteism and superstitions, holds even more significance today as religious identities are asserted with violence, posing a threat to societal harmony.
    • While newer forms of entertainment have gained popularity, they still attract young audiences eager to learn and share stories using new media platforms.

  • Baba Farid and India’s Connection to Jerusalem

    baba farid

    Central Idea

    • Amidst the timeless and contentious history of Jerusalem, India’s enduring presence is manifested through the Indian Hospice—a two-story stone building nestled within the city’s ancient walls.
    • The hospice, established in the 12th century, stands as a testament to the 800-year-old connection between India and Jerusalem.

    Baba Farid’s Hospice

    • Baba Farid’s Spiritual Sojourn: Legend has it that Baba Farid, a revered Sufi saint from Punjab, embarked on a 40-day meditation at this site. His spiritual journey left an indelible mark, inspiring Indian Muslims travelling to Mecca to visit Jerusalem for prayer.
    • Transformation into a Shrine: Over time, the place evolved into a sacred shrine and a hospice, welcoming Indian travellers and pilgrims.

    Who was Baba Farid?

    • Early life: Baba Farid, born in 1173 CE near Shakarganj, near Multan (Pakistan), belonged to a family that had migrated from Kabul to Punjab.
    • Sufi Connection: He followed the Chishti Order and was among the first Sufi saints to compose verses in Punjabi.
    • Influence on Sikhism: Many of his verses are enshrined in the Guru Granth Sahib, the holy scripture of Sikhs.

    Evolution of the Indian Hospice

    • Baba Farid’s Lodging: Baba Farid found a humble abode within one of Jerusalem’s gates, known as Bab-az-Zahra among Muslims and Herod’s Gate among Christians. This lodging was situated within a khanqah—a structure for Sufi orders, functioning as both seminaries and hospices.
    • A Continuously Cherished Connection: Despite changing rulers, including Christian crusaders, Mamluks, and Ottomans, the lodge maintained its association with India.

    Hospice through the Ages

    • Prominence during Ottoman Rule: The lodge remained prominent during Ottoman rule, predominantly under the leadership of sheikhs from South Asia.
    • Shift during Ottoman Dissolution: As the Ottoman Empire began to dissolve in 1919, the Grand Mufti of Jerusalem, Amin Al-Husayni, took charge, initiating extensive renovations. He sought support from Muslim patrons worldwide, including Indian princely states.
    • Renovation by Khwaja Nazir Hasan Ansari: In 1921, Khwaja Nazir Hasan Ansari from Saharanpur, Uttar Pradesh, undertook the renovation of the lodge. It became a sanctuary for travellers and pilgrims from British India, even offering refuge to soldiers during World War II in 1939.

    Indian Hospice’s Association with Independent India

    • Post-Independence Recognition: After India gained independence, Nazir Ansari sought official recognition from the Indian embassy in Egypt, solidifying the lodge’s Indian identity.
    • Resilience through Challenges: The hospice faced challenges, including rocket strikes in 1952 and the Six-Day War in 1967.
    • Diverse Functions: Over time, the Indian Hospice expanded to host the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) and the Jerusalem Health Centre.

    Diplomatic and Cultural Significance

    • Meeting Place for Dignitaries: In 2000, the hospice hosted a meeting between former Indian Foreign Minister Jaswant Singh and Palestinian leader Faisal Husseini.
    • Integral Diplomatic Destination: Every Indian diplomat or visiting dignitary includes a visit to the hospice.
    • Sheikh Mohammad Munir Ansari: Sheikh Mohammad Munir Ansari, born in Jerusalem in 1928, administers the hospice and received the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman (Overseas Indian Award) from the Government of India in 2011.

    Glimpse of India in Jerusalem

    • Ownership and Accessibility: The property is under the ownership of Waqf Board of India, accessible solely to individuals of Indian citizenship or heritage.
    • Facilities: The hospice offers guest rooms, a mosque, a library, a dining hall, and a kitchen, encouraging guests to manage their cooking and laundry.
    • Ansari Family’s Dedication: The Ansari family diligently maintains the hospice, extending hospitality and preserving a piece of India in the heart of Jerusalem.

  • NCERT panel suggests only ‘Bharat’ in Textbooks

    Central Idea

    • In 2022, the Social Science committee of the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) proposed a shift from ‘India’ to ‘Bharat’ in Social Science textbooks up to Class 12.
    • This suggestion has rekindled the age-old discussion about the nation’s name, particularly after the G20 Summit’s reference to the “President of Bharat.”

    Bharat’s Historical Roots

    • Puranic Literature and Mahabharata: The name ‘Bharat,’ ‘Bharata,’ or ‘Bharatvarsha’ finds its origins in Puranic literature and the epic Mahabharata. It refers to the land between the southern sea and the northern abode of snow.
    • King Bharata: Legend has it that King Bharata, an ancient figure, was the ancestor of the Bharatas, a Rig Vedic tribe, making him the forefather of the entire subcontinent’s populace.

    India’ and ‘Hindustan’

    • Hindustan’s Origins: ‘Hindustan’ likely evolved from ‘Hindu,’ the Persian equivalent of Sanskrit’s ‘Sindhu,’ influenced by the Achaemenid Persian conquest of the Indus valley in the 6th century BCE. The suffix “stan” emerged around the 1st century CE, creating “Hindustan.”
    • Greek Influence: The Greeks transliterated ‘Hind’ as ‘Indus,’ and by Alexander the Great’s 3rd-century BC invasion, ‘India’ referred to the region beyond the Indus.
    • Mughal Era: In the 16th century, ‘Hindustan’ described the entire Indo-Gangetic plain, encompassing the Mughal emperor’s territories across South Asia.
    • British Colonial Impact: British maps in the late 18th century started using ‘India,’ while ‘Hindustan’ lost its association with the whole of South Asia, reflecting evolving perspectives and colonial influence.

    Constituent Assembly’s Decision

    • Article 1 of the Constitution: Article 1 of the Indian Constitution begins with the phrase, “India, that is, Bharat, shall be a Union of States.”
    • Debate and Perspectives: During the Constituent Assembly discussions, there were differing opinions on emphasizing ‘Bharat’ as the primary name for the country.
    • Pro-‘Bharat’ Arguments: Some argued that ‘India’ was merely an English translation of ‘Bharat,’ citing the example of the Irish Constitution, where “Eire” is used in the Irish language, with “Ireland” in English.
    • Historical and Cultural Significance: Supporters of ‘Bharat’ highlighted the civilizational and cultural connotations it carried, emphasizing the need for a name that befits India’s history and heritage.
    • Dr. BR Ambedkar’s Perspective: Ultimately, the formulation ‘India, that is, Bharat,’ was adopted. Dr. BR Ambedkar, Chairman of the Constituent Assembly’s Drafting Committee, downplayed the civilizational debates and emphasized the pressing work ahead.

    Conclusion

    • The ongoing debate surrounding ‘Bharat’ and ‘India’ reflects the complexities of identity, history, and linguistic heritage in the nation.
    • While ‘Bharat’ has deep roots in ancient Indian texts, ‘India’ carries historical and colonial significance.
    • The Constituent Assembly’s choice of ‘India, that is, Bharat,’ signifies a delicate balance between honoring heritage and embracing a forward-looking identity for the nation.

  • Bombay High Court’s ‘salaam’ to art without borders

    Central idea

    The article dive into the enduring cultural connections between India and Pakistan, transcending political divides. It focuses on the unifying role of art and sports in fostering harmony despite the historical and political tensions

    Key Challenges:

    1. Political Strain Impacting Cultural Exchanges:
    • Instances like the Shiv Sena protests against Ghulam Ali and the blanket ban on Pakistani artists post-Uri and Pulwama attacks have strained cultural exchanges.
    • Political tensions restrict the collaborative space for artists, hindering the rich cultural interactions that could bridge gaps.
    1. Polarization and Internet-Driven Disconnection:
    • While the internet enables cross-border access to cultural content, increasing polarization limits the potential for genuine collaboration.
    • Artistic and cultural connections are overshadowed by political narratives, making sustained collaboration seemingly unfeasible.

    Importance of Cultural Ties:

    • Cultural ties serve as a salve on historical wounds, connecting people beyond borders through language, music, and shared experiences.
    • The camaraderie between Indian and Pakistani cricket teams is highlighted, showcasing the positive impact of people-to-people interactions.

    Today’s Relevance:

    • In an era of increasing polarization, the internet has allowed people to appreciate and connect with art from across borders, fostering a sense of respect and awe.
    • The article underscores the importance of collaborations in Jal’s era, Fawad Khan’s popularity, and the potential for future artistic alliances.

    Positive Legal Intervention:

    • The recent Bombay High Court ruling against banning collaboration with Pakistani artists is a pivotal point.
    • The court emphasizes that art, music, and sports can rise above national boundaries, promoting peace and unity.

     

    People-to-People Ties:

    • The camaraderie between Indian and Pakistani cricket teams is cited as a heartening example of people-to-people connections.
    • Instances like joint selfies and gift exchanges among players highlight the potential for collaboration beyond political animosities.

    Way Forward:

    • Encouraging cultural diplomacy beyond governmental measures is suggested.
    • Reviving cricket diplomacy and promoting collaborative artistic endeavors are proposed as practical steps toward fostering understanding.
    • Advocate for fostering people-to-people ties through sustained cultural exchanges, recognizing the common appreciation for art, music, and sports.
    • Emphasize the potential role of citizen initiatives and non-governmental organizations in promoting cultural collaboration.

    Conclusion:

    In conclusion, the article advocates for a future where the shared appreciation of art and sports acts as a bridge, bringing India and Pakistan closer despite political strains. It envisions a space where cultural connections can thrive, contributing to harmony and unity between the two nations.

  • Places in news: Edakkal Caves

    Edakkal Caves

    Central Idea

    • Kerala Tourism has launched a project to improve civic amenities around the Edakkal Caves in Wayanad, known for its rock art from prehistoric times.

    About Edakkal Caves

    • The Edakkal Caves are situated in the Wayanad district of Kerala on Ambukutty Mala, a prominent hill in the region
    • It is not a typical cave but rather a natural cleft, rift, or rock shelter created by a piece of rock splitting away from the main body.
    • It was discovered in 1890 by Fred Fawcett, a British police official.
    • The caves are also known as “Ampukuthy Mala,” with a local belief that they were created by Rama’s sons, Lava and Kusha, who struck arrows on the mountain.

    Significance of the caves

    • Historical Significance: The caves are historically significant as they are situated near an ancient trade route connecting the high mountains of Mysore to the ports of the Malabar Coast.
    • Pictorial Writings: Inside the Edakkal Caves, there are pictorial writings believed to date back to at least 6,000 BCE during the Neolithic period.
    • Unique Stone Age Carvings: The Stone Age carvings are rare and represent the only known examples from South India, which belong to the Mesolithic era.
    • Cultural Significance: The petroglyphs found include depictions of human and animal figures, tools used by humans, and enigmatic symbols yet to be deciphered, indicating a rich cultural and historical heritage.
    • Indus Valley Connect: Some of the paintings found in the Edakkal Caves, particularly those of a “man with jar cup,” have led to speculation about a possible connection to the Indus Valley civilization.

  • Rare Alupa Dynasty Inscription discovered

    Alupa

    Central Idea

    • An eminent archaeologist made a remarkable discovery during an archaeological expedition near Mangaluru.
    • They uncovered a rare inscription linked to the Alupa dynasty, shedding new light on the region’s historical tapestry.

    About Alupa Dynasty

    • Alupa Dynasty: The inscription marks the first recorded mention of the Alupa dynasty, a historically significant ruling lineage of the region of Tulu Nadu.
    • Regal Demise: Notably, the inscription commemorates the death of an Alupa king, providing a unique glimpse into this ancient dynasty’s history.
    • Siri Cult References: The inscription also contains terms related to the Siri cult, including Siri, Dalya, and Chattara (Chatra), hinting at cultural and religious practices of the era.

    Archaeological Findings

    • Keerthi Sthamba: The inscription highlights the role of Kesava in erecting a monument dedicated to Kulashekara Alupendra. A Keerthi sthamba, a pillar, found within the inscription mirrors an original pillar located in Kulashekara, a suburb of Mangaluru.
    • Intricate Details: The inscription features two panels at the top, with a Kannada script below, showcasing 12th-century characters and announcing the death of Alupendra I.
    • Royal Depictions: Human figures within the inscription represent Kulashekara Alupendra. One panel portrays him in a Tribhanga posture, wielding a sword and holding a gurani (shield). Adjacent to it, the king is depicted seated in a meditative pose, resting his palms on his legs.

    Significance in Tuluva History

    • Tuluva Culture: This discovery provides valuable insights into the customs, beliefs, and societal structure of the Alupa dynasty’s time.
    • Soma Cult: The Soma cult, established by Soma Sharma in the 11th century AD in Gujarat, finds a connection to this region. The Someshwara temple, built in honor of Soma during Kulashekara Alupendra’s reign, stands as a testament to this cultural fusion.

    Who was Kulashekara Alupendra?

    • The Alupa Legacy: Kulashekara Alupendra I, a prominent ruler of the Alupas in South Canara, played a pivotal role in shaping the region’s history.
    • City Establishment: He founded the city of Kulashekara in Mangaluru and enacted stringent regulations for temple administration, which continue to influence temple governance in the region.
    • Language and Culture: Alupendra I was a patron of the Tulu language and culture, contributing to their preservation and promotion. His reign spanned from 1156 to 1215 A.D., with this inscription datable to the 12th century based on palaeography.

  • Colonial and Anti-Colonial Roots of Durga Puja

    durga puja

    Central Idea

    • India is joyously celebrating the festival of Navratri and Durga Puja.
    • While this festival holds deep religious significance, its roots in modern times are intertwined with the colonial era.

    Robert Clive and the Mythical Beginning

    • Multiple Origin Stories: Durga Puja has various origin stories, with one popular tale linked to the aftermath of the Battle of Plassey in 1757.
    • Robert Clive’s Role: Following his victory over Nawab Siraj ud Daula, Robert Clive wished to express gratitude to God. In the absence of a church, Nabakishan Deb, Clive’s Persian translator, suggested offering prayers to Goddess Durga. This marked the initiation of Calcutta’s first Durga Puja.
    • Historical Scrutiny: While this narrative is widely known, historical records raise doubts about its accuracy. Nevertheless, it symbolizes the social beginnings of Durga Puja in Calcutta, driven by the connections between Bengali zamindars, merchants, and the East India Company.

    Sociological Changes under Colonial Rule

    • Rise of Zamindars: With the decline of the Mughal Empire, Bengal’s zamindars, hereditary landowners, gained authority, effectively governing their territories. The Permanent Settlement Act of 1793 formalized their role as intermediaries.
    • Emergence of Prosperous Merchants: Calcutta, as a growing urban center, witnessed the swift rise of affluent Bengali merchants during Company rule. Economic opportunities led to rapid wealth accumulation by families like the Tagores and the Mullicks.
    • Conspicuous Consumption: Durga Puja became a platform for the nouveau riche to flaunt their affluence. Lavish celebrations, gold-adorned idols, and entertainment from nautch girls characterized these grand events, fostering competition among rival families.

    Durga Puja Takes a Nationalistic Turn

    • Late 19th-Century Nationalism: In the late 19th century, feelings of nationalism began to surge among the Bengali intelligentsia. Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay’s “Ananda Math,” published in 1882, popularized the phrase “Bande Mataram” and introduced the concept of the “mother” nation.
    • Durga as a Symbol: Goddess Durga, revered as “Ma” (mother) Durga, came to symbolize the nation and its potential saviour from foreign rule. Durga Puja became an integral part of the burgeoning nationalist movement.
    • Response to Partition: Lord Curzon’s decision to Partition Bengal in 1905 fueled the Swadeshi Movement, with “Bande Mataram” as its rallying cry. Communal festivities, including Durga Puja, played a pivotal role in forging collective consciousness and action.
    • Swadeshi Symbolism: Durga Puja underwent a transformation during this period, with advertisements promoting indigenous products and festivities emphasizing indigenous values. British elites became less welcome at the pujas, reflecting a growing sense of nationalism.

    Shift towards Public Celebrations

    • 1920s Transformation: In the 1920s, public Durga Pujas emerged, marking a shift from exclusive festivals for the wealthy elite to inclusive celebrations for all. The first “sarbojanin” or “universal” Puja was organized in 1926 in Calcutta’s Maniktala area.
    • Inclusive Tradition: These public Pujas, organized by locality, welcomed people regardless of their caste or residence. Temporary temples, known as pandals, sprung up in public spaces, making the festivities accessible to a broader audience.

    Conclusion

    • The evolution of Durga Puja, from its colonial-era origins to a celebration of nationalism and inclusivity, reflects the dynamic nature of culture and society.
    • It has transformed from an occasion for the elite to showcase wealth to a festival that unites people across backgrounds, embracing unity in diversity.
    • Durga Puja continues to be a cherished tradition that weaves together history, culture, and the essence of Bengal.

  • Large Ozone Hole detected over Antarctica

    ozone

    Central Idea

    • Satellite measurements conducted over Antarctica have unveiled a gigantic hole in the ozone layer.
    • Termed an “ozone-depleted area,” this region spans 26 million square kilometers (10 million square miles), approximately three times the size of Brazil.

    Ozone Layer and Ozone Hole

    Location Stratosphere, approximately 10-30 km above Earth’s surface.
    Composition Composed of ozone (O3) molecules.

    Unit of measurement: Dobsob Unit (DU)
    Function Acts as a protective shield, absorbing and blocking a significant portion of harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun.
    Importance Essential for protecting life on Earth by preventing excessive UV radiation, which can harm living organisms and the environment.
    Ozone-depleting Substances Threatened by ODS like chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), halons, and other synthetic compounds commonly used in refrigeration, air conditioning, and aerosol propellants.
    Montreal Protocol An international treaty adopted in 1987 to phase out the production and consumption of ODS, resulting in significant recovery of the ozone layer.
    Current Status The ozone layer is in the process of recovery due to the success of the Montreal Protocol.
    Environmental Impact Protects ecosystems, prevents skin cancer, cataracts, and other health issues in humans.
    Additional Facts • The size of the ozone hole over Antarctica varies annually, opening in August and closing in November or December.

    • Special winds caused by the Earth’s rotation create a unique climate over Antarctica, preventing mixing with surrounding air.

    • When these winds subside, the hole closes.

    Potential Causes of the Giant Ozone Hole

    • Volcanic Eruption in Tonga: Scientists speculate that the extensive ozone hole this year may be linked to volcanic eruptions in Hunga Tonga, Tonga, between December 2022 and January 2023. These eruptions released water vapor and other elements into the stratosphere, impacting the ozone layer through chemical reactions.
    • Human-Induced Ozone Holes: In the 1970s, scientists discovered that human activities, primarily the use of chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), led to significant ozone depletion. These chemicals released chlorine in the stratosphere, depleting the ozone layer.
    • Effective Mitigation: The Montreal Protocol, established in 1987, aimed to combat ozone depletion by phasing out ozone-depleting substances. This international agreement successfully reduced the size of ozone holes over the years.

    Ozone Depletion and Climate Change

    • Not a Primary Climate Change Cause: Ozone depletion is not a leading contributor to global climate change.
    • Impact of Rising Temperatures: However, rising global temperatures may influence ozone holes. Extreme fires, such as those in southeastern Australia in 2020 and 2021, injected smoke into the stratosphere, potentially contributing to ozone depletion.
    • Changing Seasons: Ozone holes can alter the progression of seasons, as they extend the duration of polar vortexes, thereby extending winter periods.

  • Sammakka-Sarakka University: A Tribute to Tribal Legends

    Central Idea

    • The Union Cabinet has approved the proposal to set up a central Sammakka-Sarakka Tribal University in Telangana.
    • The establishment of this University was a commitment made by the Central government under the Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation Act, of 2014.
    • Both Andhra Pradesh and Telangana were promised support to establish a tribal university each.

    Legend of Sammakka and Sarakka

    • Sammakka-Sarakka: The university is named after Sammakka-Sarakka, a revered mother-daughter duo among the local tribal community.
    • Historical Significance: Sammakka was married to Pagididda Raju, a feudal chief of the Kakatiyas dynasty, and had two daughters, Sarakka and Nagulamma, along with a son named Jampanna. The legend revolves around their battle against local rulers in protest against taxing the Koya people.
    • Sammakka Saralamma Jatara: This biennial festival, held in Mulugu, commemorates the 13th-century battle of the mother-daughter duo. It is considered one of the world’s largest tribal gatherings.
    • Evolution of the Festival: Initially, only around 2,000 people, primarily from the Koya tribe, attended the festival. However, over time, it transformed into a large Hindu religious event, with millions of devotees attending.
    • Political and Social Impact: The festival gained immense political and social significance, leading to its declaration as a state festival in 1996. Infrastructure development, including a motorable road, further boosted its popularity.

    Significance of Sammakka and Sarakka

    • Massive Footfall: The festival attracts around 1.5 crore devotees from various tribal and non-tribal communities, including those from multiple states such as Andhra Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Odisha, Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Jharkhand.
    • Ministry of Tribal Affairs Participation: The Ministry of Tribal Affairs and the Telangana state government actively participate in the festival, with significant financial support.
    • Infrastructure Development: Funds have been allocated for community shelters and infrastructure in and around Medaram, the festival’s location.
    • Tribal Circuit Development: The Ministry of Tourism sanctioned funds for the integrated development of the tribal circuit, including the temple of Sammakka-Sarakka.

    Significance of Mulugu

    • Population and Demographics: Mulugu, a reserved Scheduled Tribes (ST) assembly seat, has a population of approximately 2.6 lakhs, with a 75% ST population as per the 2011 Census.
    • UNESCO World Heritage Site: The UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ramappa Temple, located about 15 km from Mulugu, adds to the area’s cultural richness.

  • In news: Dadasaheb Phalke Award

     Central Idea

    • Union Information and Broadcasting Minister announced that veteran actor Waheeda Rehman would be given the Dadasaheb Phalke Lifetime Achievement Award for 2021, honouring her stellar contribution to Indian cinema.

    About Dadasaheb Phalke Award

    Purpose Highest honor in Indian cinema for outstanding contributions to its growth and development.
    Inception Instituted by the Indian government in 1969.
    Named After Dhundiraj Govind Phalke, “Father of Indian Cinema.”
    Components ‘Swarna Kamal’ (Golden Lotus), INR 10 lakh cash prize, certificate, silk scroll, and shawl.
    Presentation By the President of India in the presence of key film industry representatives and officials.
    First Recipient Devika Rani Roerich (1969).

    Who was Dadasaheb Phalke?

    • Early Life: Dhundiraj Govind Phalke, born in 1870 in Trimbak, Maharashtra, had a diverse career. He initially studied engineering and sculpture and later developed a fascination for motion pictures after watching the 1906 silent film ‘The Life of Christ.’
    • Varied Pursuits: Before entering the world of cinema, Phalke worked as a photographer, owned a printing press, and even collaborated with the renowned painter Raja Ravi Varma.
    • Filmmaking Pioneer: In 1913, Phalke scripted, produced, and directed India’s inaugural feature film, the silent masterpiece ‘Raja Harishchandra.’ This groundbreaking film’s commercial success marked the beginning of Phalke’s prolific career in which he created 95 more films and 26 short films over the next 19 years.
    • Father of Indian Cinema: Dhundiraj Govind Phalke is hailed as the “Father of Indian Cinema” for his pioneering contributions to the country’s film industry.