Govindan Aashan: The Mullukuruma Archer from Wayanad

Govindan Aashan, a master archer from the Mullukuruma tribal community — one of the oldest indigenous groups of the Western Ghats. This Malayalam documentary (with English subtitles) traces his life, his traditional skills in archery, and the ancestral wisdom that connects his people to the earth.

For generations, the Mullukuruma have carried forward their ancestral knowledge—of the forest, of animals, of medicinal herbs, and of the delicate balance between humans and the land. Through Aashan’s eyes, we see how this traditional wisdom shapes their daily life, their values, and their respect for all living beings.

We delve into the tribal way of life, where the bow and arrow are not just weapons, but tools of a deep, spiritual connection to the land. Govindan Aashan shares the profound, often forgotten knowledge of the forest and the secrets held by his ancestors.

The film is a powerful meditation on human impact, contrasting the ancient, harmonious ways of the tribal people with the current, rapid destruction of the Earth. The archer’s mastery and unwavering devotion to his tradition offer a sobering lesson on preservation and purpose. This is a story of finding meaning and belonging, rooted in tradition and sustained by an unbreakable will.

Watch the full documentary and see the forest through the archer's eyes.

About the Channel & Production

After Images is a channel dedicated to finding real, unhurried stories. We travel across India to document local crafts, traditions, and processes, seeking fragments of life that reveal something deeper about the human experience.

Production Team:

Shot & edited by: Bibin Joseph
Sound Recording: Vishnu P
Sound Mixing: Sandeep Kurissery
Producer & Script Direction: Abhina S

Timestamps
00:20 Introduction to Govindan aashan
01:44 Archery Tools
03:37 Ancient Hunting Tradition
07:14 Human greed
08:43 Childhood story about his father

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