Lakshadweep.

My first memories of this gorgeous little group of islands are from a school excursion when I was in my
6th grade. I remember being in awe of the turquoise waters and the crystal clear lagoons. Years later, I
was part of the crew that brought film making back to the islands with Sachy’s ANARKALI. I spent a good
2 months in Kavarati and made memories and friends for a lifetime. Two years back I went back again to
film what was probably the most challenging sequence of my directorial debut LUCIFER. None of these
would have been possible if not for the wonderful, warm hearted people of Lakhsadweep.

For the last few days, I’ve been getting desperate messages from people I know and do not know from
these islands, requesting and sometimes even pleading for me to do what I can to bring public attention
to what is going on there. I’m not going to go on and write an essay about the islands and why the new
administrator’s “reforms” seem completely bizarre. All such material should by now be easily available
online for those of you interested in reading about it.

What I do know for sure though, is that none of the islanders I know, or none of those who’ve spoken to
me are happy with what’s happening. I strongly believe that any law, reform or amendment should
never be for the land, but for the people of the land. It’s never the geographical or political boundary
that makes a country, state or a union territory but the people who live there. How does disrupting the
way of life of a centuries old peaceful settlement become an acceptable means of progress? How will
threatening the balance of a very delicate island ecosystem with no regard for the potential
consequences pave the way for sustainable development?

I have faith in our system, and even more faith in our people. When an entire community is unhappy
with decisions taken by a nominated authority, upon whose posting the people there had no say, and
they vociferously bring it to the attention of the world and their government, I would like to think there
is no way other than act on it.

So please, to whomsoever it may concern, do listen to the voice of the people of Lakshadweep, trust
them to know what is better for their land. It’s one of the most beautiful places on earth, with even
more beautiful people living there. 🙏