Cartographies of Memory: Fragmented Space, Disrupted History, and Constructed Identity in Amma Ariyan

Gouri Nandhana M. G.¹, Dr. Divya R. Krishnan²

¹Ph.D. Scholar, Department of English and Cultural Studies, CHRIST (Deemed to be University), Bangalore.

²Associate Professor, Department of Professional Studies, CHRIST (Deemed to be University), Bangalore.

Abstract

The paper aims to examine Amma Ariyan (1986), directed by John Abraham, as a powerful exploration of memory and politicalconsciousness. Followed by the suicide of Hari, a young table player, the narrative unfolds as a journey primarily begun by Purushan and gradually a group of comrades and acquaintances of Hari to inform Hari’s mother. However, the physical journey simultaneously transforms into a mnemonic one, through which Hari’s identity, as well as Kerala’s rich political history, are reconstructed. Drawing on Maurice Halbwach’s concept of collective memory, the paper seeks to highlight memory as socially constructed rather than produced individually. Hari does not appear as a fixed character. Instead, he is remembered differently by everyone, and his identity emerges through their shared narration. The paper is further informed by Pierre Nora’s concept of sites of memory to explore how the film itself creates a space whereKerala’s political past is preserved through lived experiences rather than factual history.

Keywords: Amma ariyan, Halbwach, Kerala, Memory, Pierre nora.