With confident eyes that pierce through societal norms, an androgynous model adorned in jewels, lipstick and a sari—complete with scarlet nails—confronts the world by owning his identity triumphant in the face of his turbulent past. This silent yet profound defiance is eminently captured in the frames of the short film ‘Society Barks’, where 24-year-old Muhammed Asif Cherachen stands as the embodiment of resilience and empowerment.
Vighnesh A Bhaskar is the filmmaker who, through his nine-minute cinematic work, shines a light on the often overlooked plight of boys suffering from abuse. A student at Neo Film School in Kochi, he shaped ‘Society Barks’ as part of an assignment tasked with directing a character portrait. The depths of Asif’s story, he stumbled upon through a viral Instagram account, stirred him deeply.
“I was deeply affected by his journey to rise above the tribulations he faced in his youth,” Vighnesh comments. His connection with Asif started with uncertainty, as he was unaware of Asif’s whereabouts or his willingness to be featured in a film. The narrative also pivots on a misconception ingrained in society—that vulnerability is exclusive to girl children.
In an unexpected stroke of luck, Vighnesh crossed paths with Asif thanks to a friend’s introduction. After hearing Vighnesh’s concept for the film, Asif instantly came on board. A stylistic approach defined by a distinctive color palette sets the stage for Asif to unveil his narrative in first person, an artistic choice that adds depth to his poignant journey.
It wasn’t a smooth road throughout the filming. Reflecting on the process, Vighnesh recalls that Asif was gripped by sorrow and anger when revisiting the harrowing incidents that marred his younger years.
Asif, often a victim of bullying during his school days due to his introvert nature, relates how the abuse aggravated his retreat into solitude. ‘Society Barks’ was more than a film to him; it was a clarion call to society to halt the unwarranted judgment based on physical appearance, body language, or apparel. It wasn’t until he reached the age of 18 that he summoned the courage to confide the details of his past to his elder sister.
The film, he aspires, will enhance societal awareness about the protection that all children, irrespective of their gender, are entitled to. Asif remains hopeful, “Perhaps my story might provide solace to someone who finds themselves in a situation akin to mine, giving them the strength to break their silence.”
‘Society Barks’ extends its reach to audiences beyond film festivals and screenings; it is accessible on YouTube for viewers worldwide. The film stands as a testament to the silent battles fought every day and the undying spirit of individuals like Asif who, by sharing their truths, seek to pave the way for a more compassionate, more open-minded society.
The movie invites us to question and, ultimately, to redefine the constructs that shackle our perceptions of masculinity, identity, and trauma. It demands a reflection on the collective responsibility towards nurturing a culture that upholds the innocence and safety of children, enabling voices like Asif’s to echo not in isolation but amidst a chorus of informed and empathetic understanding.
