Theme:
The film explores the life, work, and legacy of Ferdinand Kittel, a German missionary and linguist, who dedicated his life to understanding and preserving Kannada language and culture. It delves into his passionate journey of compiling the first comprehensive Kannada-English dictionary, navigating cultural barriers, and facing colonial tensions. The narrative celebrates his unwavering commitment to Kannada heritage, emphasizing the transformative power of language and cross-cultural understanding.
Narrative Structure:
The film is structured as a biographical period drama, unfolding through three intertwined timelines:
Director’s Note
The journey of crafting KITTEL has been a profound exploration of the life and contributions of Rev. Ferdinand Kittel, a figure of immense significance in the annals of Kannada literature. Our endeavor was not merely to narrate a historical biography but to vividly portray the life of a European missionary who became an integral part of Karnataka’s linguistic and cultural landscape.
Rev. Kittel’s unwavering dedication to compiling the first comprehensive Kannada-English dictionary and his seminal works in Kannada grammar and poetry stand as monumental contributions to the language. His deep-rooted love for Kannada and the people of Karnataka resonates through his extensive research and literary pursuits. It was this remarkable journey of a man transcending cultural and geographical boundaries that inspired us to bring his story to the silver screen.
Our cinematic portrayal delves into the socio-political climate of 19th-century India, marked by colonial rule and cultural exchanges. The film captures Kittel’s interactions with local scholars, common folk, and colonial authorities, reflecting the complexities and nuances of his mission. It showcases his struggles against prejudices, his conflicts with colonial governance, and his relentless pursuit of linguistic excellence.
Visually, we strived to authentically recreate the period setting, from the serene landscapes of coastal Karnataka to the scholarly ambiance of Kittel’s workspace. The use of traditional art forms, period-specific costumes, and historically accurate settings serves to immerse the audience in Kittel’s world. The music, blending Western classical undertones with native folk tunes, echoes the confluence of cultures that defined Kittel’s life.
This film is a tribute not only to Rev. Ferdinand Kittel but also to the enduring spirit of cultural harmony and intellectual pursuit. It aims to inspire audiences to appreciate the rich tapestry of Kannada heritage and the extraordinary individuals who have enriched it.
Through KITTEL, we celebrate the journey of a man who, despite being an outsider, became an eternal insider in the heart of Karnataka. His legacy is a testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and cross-cultural understanding.
Theme:
The film explores the life, work, and legacy of Ferdinand Kittel, a German missionary and linguist, who dedicated his life to understanding and preserving Kannada language and culture. It delves into his passionate journey of compiling the first comprehensive Kannada-English dictionary, navigating cultural barriers, and facing colonial tensions. The narrative celebrates his unwavering commitment to Kannada heritage, emphasizing the transformative power of language and cross-cultural understanding.
Narrative Structure:
The film is structured as a biographical period drama, unfolding through three intertwined timelines:
Director’s Note
The journey of crafting KITTEL has been a profound exploration of the life and contributions of Rev. Ferdinand Kittel, a figure of immense significance in the annals of Kannada literature. Our endeavor was not merely to narrate a historical biography but to vividly portray the life of a European missionary who became an integral part of Karnataka’s linguistic and cultural landscape.
Rev. Kittel’s unwavering dedication to compiling the first comprehensive Kannada-English dictionary and his seminal works in Kannada grammar and poetry stand as monumental contributions to the language. His deep-rooted love for Kannada and the people of Karnataka resonates through his extensive research and literary pursuits. It was this remarkable journey of a man transcending cultural and geographical boundaries that inspired us to bring his story to the silver screen.
Our cinematic portrayal delves into the socio-political climate of 19th-century India, marked by colonial rule and cultural exchanges. The film captures Kittel’s interactions with local scholars, common folk, and colonial authorities, reflecting the complexities and nuances of his mission. It showcases his struggles against prejudices, his conflicts with colonial governance, and his relentless pursuit of linguistic excellence.
Visually, we strived to authentically recreate the period setting, from the serene landscapes of coastal Karnataka to the scholarly ambiance of Kittel’s workspace. The use of traditional art forms, period-specific costumes, and historically accurate settings serves to immerse the audience in Kittel’s world. The music, blending Western classical undertones with native folk tunes, echoes the confluence of cultures that defined Kittel’s life.
This film is a tribute not only to Rev. Ferdinand Kittel but also to the enduring spirit of cultural harmony and intellectual pursuit. It aims to inspire audiences to appreciate the rich tapestry of Kannada heritage and the extraordinary individuals who have enriched it.
Through KITTEL, we celebrate the journey of a man who, despite being an outsider, became an eternal insider in the heart of Karnataka. His legacy is a testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and cross-cultural understanding.
