Migrant Experiences in Madras Café and Piku

Abstract

The cinematic narratives of modern migrants offer a profound lens through which to explore the complexities of displacement, identity, and belonging in a globalized world. The objective of this paper is to examine how contemporary films, such as Madras Café and Piku, depict the migrant experience, displacement, clashes, cultural hybridity, trauma, and resilience. By analysing a selection of influential films from diverse geographical and cultural contexts, the study highlights the role of cinema in shaping public perceptions of migration while giving voice to marginalized communities.  The research employs a multi-modal approach, combining narrative analysis, visual aesthetics, and socio-political critique to unravel the layered representations of migrants in the selected films for the study. Furthermore, it investigates how these narratives challenge stereotypes, foster empathy, and contribute to discourses on trans-nationalism and diaspora.   The paper also considers the ethical responsibilities of filmmakers in portraying migrant stories without exploitation.  Ultimately, this study underscores cinema's power as both an artistic medium and a tool for social commentary, bridging the gap between personal migrant experiences and broader geopolitical realities.