Prithviraj Sukumaran’s latest film, “Aadujeevitham (The Goat Life),” has been making waves at the box office, captivating audiences with its poignant narrative inspired by the real-life experiences of Najeeb Muhammad alias Shukoor. Najeeb’s journey, which unfolded in the 1990s, saw him leaving his homeland in search of a better life in the Arabian Gulf states to support his family. However, he found himself ensnared in a nightmarish ordeal, forced to work as a slave and goatherd in the unforgiving desert for over three years.
Recently, Prithviraj Sukumaran had a profound conversation with Najeeb, delving into the depths of the latter’s harrowing experiences. Reflecting on his approach to portraying Najeeb’s character in the film, Prithviraj shared the initial dilemma he faced—whether to depict Najeeb as the real person he is or as envisioned by the director and the author of the novel on which the film is based. Ultimately, Prithviraj and director Blessy decided to craft a portrayal that merged both perspectives, resulting in a compelling depiction of Najeeb’s resilience and suffering.
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Najeeb, in sharing his anguish and despair from his time in the desert, revealed the depths of his torment and the desperate thoughts that plagued him. Despite facing seemingly insurmountable odds and losing faith in divine intervention, his unwavering love for his family, particularly his pregnant wife, remained a beacon of hope amid the darkness of his captivity.
“Produced by Visual Romance, ‘The Goat Life’ features a stellar cast, including Hollywood actor Jimmy Jean-Louis, Indian talents like Amala Paul and K.R. Gokul, and renowned Arab actors such as Talib al Balushi and Rik Aby in pivotal roles. The film’s music direction and sound design, led by Academy Award winners A.R. Rahman and Resul Pookutty, further enhance its cinematic appeal, offering audiences a captivating and immersive experience.”
“Aadujeevitham (The Goat Life)” stands as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the enduring power of hope in the face of adversity. As it continues to garner acclaim and touch hearts, it serves as a reminder of the indomitable strength found within the human soul.
