Kadha trailer screening & PAnel
On April 24, 2025, the American Malayali Heritage Foundation (AMHF) proudly hosted a special Trailer Screening and Panel Discussion for KADHA, the first full-length documentary capturing the journey of Malayalee immigrants who moved to the United States in the 1960s and 70s.
The event was held at The Kerala Center in Elmont, NY. The Kerala Center is a historic and cultural hub for Malayalee Americans. The venue served as a fitting backdrop for this meaningful gathering, honoring the legacy of those who first built our community.
The evening began with a heartfelt welcome from the AMHF President Daisy Palliparambil, who spoke about the deeply personal and cultural significance of KADHA. She reminded the audience that this documentary is more than a film. It is a tribute to the courage, resilience, and sacrifices of an entire generation of Malayalee immigrants whose stories have often gone untold.
Attendees were moved by the premiere screening of the documentary trailer. This was followed by an intimate and inspiring panel discussion moderated by AMHF, featuring the documentary’s Executive Producer and Visionary, Shainu Thomas, and Director, Cinematographer, and Editor, Raelyn Munneke. Also joining the panel were two special guests interviewed in the film: Prof. M. Cheruvelil and Mrs. Teresa Antony.
Shainu Thomas and Raelyn Munneke offered powerful insights into the making of KADHA, from the emotional and logistical challenges they faced to the responsibility of honoring such meaningful stories. Prof. Cheruvelil and Mrs. Antony shared personal reflections on their immigration journeys, cultural transitions, and the pursuit of the American dream. Their testimonies resonated deeply with the audience, many of whom saw their own family histories reflected in these experiences.
The panel concluded with an open Q&A, giving attendees the chance to connect with the storytellers and share their own reflections. The event fostered an atmosphere of remembrance, pride, and unity.
In addition to its cultural impact, the event helped raise valuable funds to support the completion of KADHA, ensuring this important chapter of history is preserved for generations to come.
KADHA is more than a documentary, it is a celebration of identity, sacrifice, and the dreams that built a thriving community. Learn more about this documentary and how you can support its completion at https://www.ourkadha.com/
Photo Credit: Joel Varghese
