Unnimama's gambit & his village's right moves inspire movie

LIFE is like a chess game - it depends on how you play it.

- GOPIKA VARRIER @Thrissur

Like most villages in the high ranges, settlers in Marottichal had to grind it out to make a living from farming and create a safe, comfortable living space.

But over the years, the area became a haven for illicit hooch, 'vaat' in local parlance, pushing a generation into alcoholism.

Up until a man named C Unnikrishnan arrived in Marottichal, opened a tea shop, and changed its face by introducing chess - which helped combat the social evil.

The journey of Unnikrishnan, fondly known as Unnimama, inspired a film by Mumbai-based director Kabeer Khurana.

The Pawn of Marottichal was screened for villagers last week.

"It was a moving experience to be around the people in Marottichal and learn about how chess changed their lives."

Though the film is inspired by true events, the screenplay has its fictional elements.