The book Missing Migrants and Access to Justice commemorates 25 years of Pravasa Lokam, a pioneering Kairali TV program dedicated to locating missing migrant workers in the Gulf and supporting Indians in distress abroad
At the Sharjah International Book Festival (SIBF), the spotlight turned to the challenges of diaspora communities with an event to release Missing Migrants and Access to Justice.
Co-authored by veteran journalist and Pravasa Lokam associate Anasudhin Azeez and renowned diaspora researcher and Lok Kerala Sabha (LKS) coordinator Dr CS Akhil, the book commemorate s 25 years of Pravasa Lokam, a pioneering Kairali TV program dedicated to locating missing migrant workers in the Gulf and supporting Indians in distress abroad.
The book was officially presented by Pabitra Majumdar, Labour and Madad Consul General at the Indian Consulate in Dubai, to Lok Kerala Sabha member TK Abdul Hameed. Advocate Abdul Karim Ahmed bin Eid, the chief guest, emphasised the importance of legal protection for all residents in the UAE, highlighting the nation’s inclusive ethos as a “garden” that embraces all, irrespective of religion or caste.
Labour Consul Pabitra Mukherjee praised Pravasa Lokam for its impactful work, calling it a source of pride for the Indian community. She commended the program’s dedication, which she described as a remarkable contribution from a television channel to society.
The event also honoured Pravasa Lokam Director Rafeek Ravuther for his contributions. Advocate Abdul Karim presented him with a Ponnada (golden shawl) and a memento to mark the occasion. Co-author CS Akhil was similarly felicitated.
Several dignitaries attended the function, including NK Kunjahammed, a member of the Pravasi Kshemanidhi Board of Directors, Malayalam Mission Academy Council Member and UAE Coordinator KL Gopi, and Lok Kerala Sabha invitees RP Murali, K Rajan, Sujitha Subru, and Pravasalokam representative Anil Ampat.
The event was moderated by Lok Kerala Sabha member and journalist Tansi Hashir, who ensured the function’s smooth proceedings.
The release of the book highlights the enduring legacy of Pravasa Lokam and its commitment to addressing diaspora challenges over the past 25 years.
Kerala Chief Minister Mr Pinarayi Vijayan accepts a copy of Missing Migrants and Access to Justice from KN Harilal, Planning Board Member, in the presence of Dr CS Akhil and Rafeek Ravuther.
Sharjah International Book Fair to Honour Rafeek Ravuther, the Producer/Director of Landmark TV Program ‘Pravasalokam’ which completes 1000 episodes within 25 years…reports Asian Lite News
The Sharjah International Book Fair (SIBF), one of the most prestigious literary gatherings in the Arab world, is set to host a special event honouring Rafeek Ravuther, the producer/ director of Pravasalokam, a revolutionary television program that celebrates its 25th anniversary and 1,000th episode this year.
The event will commemorate the impact of Pravasalokam, which has fundamentally transformed media engagement in the Gulf region through its unique blend of citizen journalism and media activism.
For a quarter of a century, Pravasalokam, which airs on the Kairali Channel, has spotlighted the lives of Kerala’s expatriates in the Middle East, particularly focusing on those who go missing abroad. The show, often described as a lifeline for the migrant community, connects the families of missing expatriates with the resources and agencies that help reunite them with their loved ones. This innovative approach has not only provided solace to countless families but has also created a platform for migrant advocacy that transcends borders.
“Thanks to the SIBF organising committee for acknowledging our efforts to support migrant workers in the Gulf,” said Ravuther in a recent statement. “The book Missing Migrants and Access to Justice, authored by Anasudhin Azeez and Dr. C.S. Akhil, is a compilation of our work. It carries statements from people who were part of this noble effort.”
Ravuther also expressed his gratitude to the “good Samaritans in the Gulf who supported our works,” recognizing the vast network of supporters who have aided Pravasalokam’s mission over the years.
Missing Migrants and Access to Justice is a comprehensive examination of the impact of Pravasalokam. The book reflects on the program’s journey, offering insights into the challenges faced by migrant workers and the invaluable role the show has played in addressing these struggles. With more than a thousand episodes, the program has managed to address over 2,000 cases of missing expatriates, collaborating with a wide range of volunteers and experts in India and abroad.
Since its inception, Pravasalokam has addressed the plight of Kerala’s diaspora, many of whom face challenging circumstances in their host countries. In the late 20th century, cross-border mobility in India was a sensitive issue, often dominated by state regulations and sovereignty concerns. Media involvement was largely limited to cultural events and policy updates. Against this backdrop, Pravasalokam emerged as a ground-breaking force, taking a bold stand to advocate for expatriates’ rights and protection, thus challenging the traditional role of media.
The architects of Pravasalokam identified and addressed the real challenges faced by Kerala’s migrant community, ranging from financial struggles to navigating complex legal systems in foreign countries. The show encountered numerous obstacles, including financial constraints and scrutiny from foreign governments. Yet Pravasalokam persevered, expanding into a robust platform that successfully advocated for policy changes at both state and national levels. In collaboration with the Centre for Indian Migrant Studies (CIMS), the program has not only raised awareness about the hardships faced by migrant workers but also facilitated real solutions and legal support.
The legacy of Pravasalokam reflects its multifaceted mission: educating migrant workers about their rights, warning them about visa fraud, and using social media for advocacy. The program serves as a connecting point for stakeholders ranging from diplomats and philanthropists to community leaders, all working together to uplift migrant communities. This network, nurtured over two decades, has proven to be a reliable resource for those in crisis, amplifying the voices of migrant workers and giving visibility to their struggles on a global scale.
The Sharjah International Book Fair’s celebration of Pravasalokam’s legacy is also a tribute to Malayalam media, which has gained recognition globally, including from the United Nations, for its role in diaspora support and media activism. The program’s success is not only due to the efforts of Ravuther and his team but also to the resilience of the Kerala diaspora, whose stories and sacrifices are central to the show’s mission. This event at SIBF will highlight the journey of Pravasalokam as a beacon of empowerment and solidarity, reshaping public perception of migrant workers and validating their experiences.
Through a deep dive into Pravasalokam’s origins, Missing Migrants and Access to Justice documents the unwavering dedication that has kept this program alive despite countless obstacles. The book offers insights into the program’s structure, its investigative approach, and the collaborative efforts that have allowed it to thrive as a support system for migrant workers. By narrating the program’s milestones and challenges, the book also provides a roadmap for other activists and organizations aiming to support expatriate communities.
As the 25-year journey of Pravasalokam continues, the program’s impact serves as a reminder of the power of grassroots media activism. Ravuther’s vision has reshaped Kerala’s diaspora, fostering a sense of identity and resilience among expatriates. The SIBF’s tribute not only commemorates a significant achievement in the media world but also calls for continued action in supporting migrant communities worldwide. This event is expected to inspire other media professionals and activists to create meaningful change through compassionate journalism and to recognize the strength of non-state interventions in safeguarding the rights of migrant workers.
