Shrey Rajdeo. Photos: Kamal Kassim/Gulf Today

Muhammad Yusuf, Features Writer

“Salam Madrasa Hindustani,” which had its trailer launch in Armani Hotel Dubai, Burj Khalifa, is a film that deals with the issue of an Islamic school (madrasa). The story revolves around two children, who invite a rag picker to study along with them, in the school. Ali and Imran are studying in an Islamic school in rural India. They make friends with the rag picker, Bantu, while playing football. Bantu wants to go to school. Maulvi (religious teacher in the school), learns about Bantu’s keenness to study.

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He manages to convince Bantu’s father to let him study in the school, though the father initially resists by saying “once a rag picker, always a rag picker.” After a few days of school, Bantu goes missing. Maulvi also goes missing. The village is in uproar. The blame for the disappearances falls on Maulvi and the school. Shahid, Maulvi’s son, who has come to India from Qatar, begins searching for his father.

He is unable to find him and the police too are not helpful. Ultimately, Maulvi is found lying on the ground in the marketplace. Instead of enquiring about the matter, he is treated as the cause of Bantu’s disappearance. Maulvi requests Shahid to look for Bantu and bring him back. He says the school stands for education and humanity. Shahid continues his search for Bantu. He wants his father and the school to be cleared of the charges. Will he be able to save the school and his father from the allegations? That is the crux of the film. The project has been supported by actors and team members from Qatar, a singer from Dubai and a studio from Kuwait. Besides India, a part of the film was shot in Qatar, with Arab actors. It is directed and written by Shrey Rajdeo, filmmaker, producer and founder of Aarambh Pictures. UAE-based Sonia Majeed is lead vocalist. She is a Global Peace Ambassador, Goodwill Ambassador and Country Director UAE — World Youth Forum. “Salam Madrasa Hindustani” has been selected for international festivals such as Lift-off Sessions, London (2019, 2020); First-Time Filmmakers Session, London (2019) and has been a finalist at FlickFair, an online film festival platform. It was in the Viewing Room Library at Film Bazaar, Goa, India (2019).

  A scene from the film ‘Salam Madrasa Hindustani.’

Rajdeo spoke to Gulf Today about the film

Why did you name your movie ‘Salam Madrasa Hindustani’? Is it inspired by Salaam Bombay?

The movie is inspired by my own experience of life; thus far I have visited twenty two madrasas in India. It’s a new story and I believe in creating my own ideas. As it is shot in India and film is about the madrasa, with ‘Salam Madrasa Hindustani’ I’m saluting the madrasas all over the world for their great efforts in field of education and humanity.

Why did you choose this subject for making a movie?

I think madrasas have been talked about for a long time, and people have lots of misconceptions about them. I felt that there is a need to show the world the truth and facts of the madrasa. We as human beings, should not become judgmental without knowing facts.

How did you research the script?

I researched the script when I first visited a madrasa in Pune city, near Mumbai.

Do you think Indian madrasas have a bad name? If so, why?

I don’t think Indian madrasas have a bad name; it’s just that people have misunderstood everything. Madrasas have been doing fabulous work through the years.

How did you put together the logistics — people from different countries are involved. Who helped you in your effort?

There are many people and producers who have supported the project and by the Almighty’s grace, we have been able to move ahead with our vision.

In what category will you place the film? Feature? Documentary? Docu-feature?

The film is commercial with a great message for humanity and I hope it continues to be appreciated as it is now.

Was it more difficult to direct children than adults? What are the challenges both posed?

To work with children is always fun, as they are ready to grasp things easily. With adults, obviously they are experienced and have lived their lives. So it is a little easy to explain things to them.

Why did you choose the UAE for the film’s international trailer launch?

The UAE is the best place in world to have exposure regarding your ideas or projects. It’s a dream country, which always welcomes you. You will love its kind support.

Were there any lessons you learnt while making the movie?

I keep learning lessons, each and every day of my life. One thing is for sure - if the film is an independent production, you have to keep faith and spirit, so that the team is cheered up all the time.

What is the impact do you wish the film to have?

I wish people would change their ways of thought towards madrasas and start appreciating their noble efforts. After all, this is one small world and we should have love, not hatred. If we have to grow, it is better we grow together by helping and supporting each other firmly.