Farmers Movement Archive

A song to back voiceless farmers

Kozhikode: When some artists in the state decided that it would be a crime to sit idle when farmers are locked in a struggle for survival in other parts of the country, the group’s efforts at giving voice to the voiceless culminated in the music video ‘Kanalkatta’. “The farm bill 2020 is a sign of what is in store. The way it was introduced speaks volumes. Its long-term impact will be devastating,” said Jassie Gift, the producer of the video. Jassie released the video on his YouTube channel. “Initially, many thought the legislation would be of no consequence to Kerala. But it is now almost certain that the state will also bear the brunt of the law carved out to suit the needs of corporates,” Jassie said. Haris Abdul Vahid’s lyrics attempt to capture the different moods of a farmer. “They convey how we are indebted to farmers whose labour appears on our dinner tables in various forms. There is an emotional bond between the farmer and his field where he sows his dreams along with the seeds,” said Nazar Malik, who tries to capture all that passion in his rendition of the song. “It is not mere financial gain that drives a farmer; it is the bond with his field that compels him not to seek greener pastures, even amid utter misery. Even after a serious crop loss he returns with added vigour,” Malik said. “Not many in Kerala can fathom the amount of exploitation that farmers undergo. We cannot remain silent while farmers are sitting on roads, braving the harsh weather. So we decided to express solidarity with the agitators through the song,” he said.

The Times of India

2021-01-24

Kozhikode