Honoring the legacy of Malayalee immigrants who blazed the trail for generations to come
about kadha
From humble origins in Kerala to bustling cities across the United States, kadha seeks to chronicle the challenges and triumphs faced by pioneers of the Malayalee community in America.
Through intimate interviews and heartfelt narratives, this full-length documentary will capture the untold stories of first generation Malayalees and their struggles with assimilation, discrimination, and their bittersweet longing for home. All the while, kadha celebrates the rich heritage and courage that defined these soft-spoken heroes.
Embark on a compelling cinematic odyssey that celebrates the universal human experience of sacrifice, bravery, and resilience through the story of a people paving a new path in a new land.
behind the scenes
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“But in my day, molay, a girl couldn’t dream like that. But you, my namesake, you can be a doctor, or lawyer, or journalist—anything you imagine. We lit that lamp to light your path.”
Abraham Verghese,
The Covenant of Water
Shainu
Thomas
Producer
Visionary
Shainu immigrated to the U.S in the early 90’s with her family as a result of being sponsored by her Aunt. Her Aunt is one among the hundreds of nurses who came to the U.S. in the 1970’s. Shainu is passionate about making the story of this generation known, lest their sacrifices and impact fade away without any recognition. Her vision for capturing these stories and desire to share them has been a driving factor that has brought this project to the screen.
Director
Cinematographer
Editor
Raelyn
Munneke
As a documentarian for 18 years, Raelyn has captured stories of sports stars for ESPN, executives for Walmart, earned a regional Emmy nomination for her feature documentary, and traveled the world. But what truly drew her into story were the sideline members, the associates supporting a family and the many other stories each person in this world holds. When someone begins to believe their story matters, that's the magic Raelyn keeps chasing through film.