Exploring Chandigarh: Asees Prab's Cinematic Journey

Asees Prab's Unique Perspective on Chandigarh

Asees Prab, originally from Chandigarh, ventured to Australia to pursue her PhD. Upon her return, she was struck by a thought: why does the world find Chandigarh intriguing while its residents often overlook its charm?

This contemplation led to the creation of two short films titled Act! Citizen and Otherness.

Initially, Prab did not intend to make films. She explained, "These were not meant to be cinematic works; they started as mere footage that evolved into films during the process." She views these projects as research artifacts rather than traditional films, aiming to spark conversation rather than provide definitive conclusions about Chandigarh.

Act! Citizen tells the story of a kabadiwala who lived in Chandigarh for 25 years without ever visiting the Capitol Complex. "He was completely unaware of his own city," Prab noted.

Her second film, Otherness, critiques Le Corbusier's modular design principles, which influence everything from the city's doorknobs to its sector layout. It raises questions about inclusivity, highlighting the experiences of street vendors and women who navigate spaces not designed with them in mind. "The modularity caters to a six-foot-tall European male. As a woman, I feel we are often seen as the sexualized others. What about creating spaces that are universally accessible? Where are the ramps?" she asked.

Prab opted for film instead of a traditional thesis because her research was intended for the people of Chandigarh, not for an academic audience in Australia. "I kept pondering how I could share my findings with the community here if I couldn't bring it back," she reflected.

The films had their premiere at the Tagore Theatre on Saturday.