Watch Arabikatha

Arabikatha is a 2007 Malayalam language film, directed by Lal Jose and starring Sreenivasan, Jayasurya, and Rima Kallingal. Set in the backdrop of the Gulf War, the film is a satire on the middle-class Malayali psyche and their fascination with the Gulf countries. The film begins with a young journalist, Shahid (played by Jayasurya), trying to make his way in the media industry. After several unsuccessful job interviews, he finds a job as a reporter with a local newspaper. His first assignment is to write an article on the Gulf War and its impact on Malayalis living in the Gulf countries.

Shahid travels to Kuwait to meet a group of Malayalis who have been stranded in the war-torn country. Among the group is Sarathchandran (played by Sreenivasan), a former salesman, who has been living in Kuwait for the past 18 years. Sarathchandran tells Shahid his story, of how he left his family in Kerala and migrated to Kuwait in search of a better life.

Sarathchandran's story is a reflection of the dreams and aspirations of the Malayali middle class. He represents the average Malayali man who migrates to the Gulf countries in search of a better job and a better life. He tells Shahid about the struggles he faced in the initial years of his stay in Kuwait, his relationship with his Arab boss, and the friends he made along the way.

The film also introduces the character of Nalini (played by Rima Kallingal), who is Sarathchandran's wife. Nalini represents the Malayali woman who is left behind by her husband to manage the household and take care of the children. The film highlights the challenges faced by women who are left behind by their husbands who migrate to the Gulf countries for work.

The film explores the complexities of the Malayali psyche and their fascination with the Gulf countries. The Malayalis have a deep love for the Gulf countries, which is evident from the way they talk about it, the way they dress, and the way they live. The film satirizes this love and shows how it is driven more by materialistic desires than anything else.

Arabikatha is a visually stunning film with beautiful locations and cinematography that captures the essence of Kuwait and Kerala. The film also boasts of a superb cast with brilliant performances by Sreenivasan, Jayasurya, and Rima Kallingal. Sreenivasan steals the show with his portrayal of Sarathchandran, showcasing his versatility and range as an actor.

The film also has a beautiful soundtrack, composed by Bijibal, which complements the story and enhances the mood of the film. The songs are melodious and soulful, making the film a treat for the audience's senses.

In conclusion, Arabikatha is a must-watch film for anyone who wants to understand the Malayali psyche and their fascination with the Gulf countries. The film is not just a satire on the middle-class Malayalis but also a commentary on the human desire for a better life. Lal Jose's direction and Sreenivasan's performance make this film a cinematic masterpiece that is sure to leave a lasting impression on the audience.