From pasting posters to directing a movie; Unni Sivalingam’s proud moment with ‘Balti’

Director Unni Sivalingam shared a post on Instagram a day before his debut film 'Balti' hit theatres. “My father, Sivalingam, a passionate movie buff, used to go around pasting cinema posters. I would accompany him as a child. Today, when my father stands in front of the poster of my movie... this is the proudest moment of my life,” he wrote.

Unni Sivalingam reflected on the journey of making his debut film 'Balti.'
This young filmmaker from Melamuri near Palakkad has truly done a 'Balti'— a somersault — and landed firmly in the courtyard of Malayalam cinema. And the rest appeared on the screen: 'Balti'. Direction: Unni Sivalingam.

Even as 'Balti' enjoys a successful theatrical run, it’s worth remembering the hurdles this 30-year-old had to overcome to perform his cinematic somersault and stand tall. For one, he was a first-time director, and secondly, he lacked formal academic training. Yet, much like Shane Nigam’s character in the film who breaks through his opponents in Kabaddi and coasts to safety with a 'Balti', Unni too overcame those obstacles to achieve success.

The Kabaddi route
“Many of my friends are Kabaddi players. I used to accompany them to matches. Since Kabaddi is a sport involving intense physical contact, it often leads to ego clashes and conflicts. That’s when I thought of telling an action-packed story through the lives of four Kabaddi players. That’s how 'Balti' was born.”

Action sequences
“I’m crazy about action films. I was determined to make my debut in this genre. But I didn’t want action just for the sake of it — there had to be a reason behind it. That’s when I decided to use Kabaddi as the narrative vehicle. This idea came to me four or five years ago. I kept watching films and planning. Eventually, I settled on the story of four Kabaddi players and began writing. As the writing progressed, it became more exciting. That’s when I decided — this would be my film.

I believe I’ve managed to tell their stories in an emotional way, alongside the action. Though Vicky and Action Santhosh choreographed the fight scenes, I gave detailed instructions for each sequence. I had a clear vision, right down to every kick and punch.”

The name ‘Balti’
Many were unsure about the title. The word is common in and around Palakkad. Doing a 'Balti' — with or without hands — is a phrase often used among those with Tamil roots. Dancing while doing Balti is a term frequently heard during Mariyamman pujas and similar occasions.

Some crew members doubted whether the name would resonate across Kerala. That’s when the producer made a decisive remark: “Mohanlal liked the name.” Lalettan felt it was a strong title that would work. That settled it.

Journey into cinema
“I haven’t studied cinema academically. I learned by watching YouTube videos and making short films. My only professional experience was working as an assistant director for one schedule during the filming of 'Thankam', which was released two years ago. I also completed a one-year visual media course at St. Thomas College, Thrissur, where I learned editing and camera work. More importantly, I found a brave group of friends willing to fight alongside me.

I don’t believe cinema can be taught. Whether we study in an institute or work under someone, we truly learn filmmaking by shooting and editing ourselves. Though my family loved cinema, they weren’t happy about my career choice. But I had made up my mind by the second year of my degree. Their opposition gradually faded after watching my short films.”

Selvaraghavan and Sai Abhyankkar
“Selvaraghavan, a renowned Tamil screenwriter, actor, and director, is someone I call a genius. He immediately agreed to play Bhairavan in 'Balti' after hearing the story and described the climax as excellent.

Sai Abhyankkar, a 20-year-old music composer from Chennai, is known for his viral YouTube music videos. His tracks 'Katchi Sera' and 'Aasa Kooda' were among the most searched on YouTube last year. I approached him after watching those videos. Sai was excited by the story and came on board. Like me, 'Balti' marks Sai’s debut in film music. Since then, he has received numerous offers and is now in high demand, with a hefty paycheck to match.”

Shane Nigam
“Shane Nigam is an actor with immense potential. I personally believe he’s among the top five actors in Malayalam cinema. He made significant sacrifices to become Udayan in 'Balti'. I asked him to gain weight, which required a special diet and gym training. He practised Kabaddi with the other three actors for 40 days, did countless somersaults, and watched hours of Kabaddi footage. He also took considerable risks performing the action scenes.”

What’s next…
“The next film will be in Tamil — an action movie on an even grander scale. I’ve also conceived a sequel to 'Balti'. Talks are underway with producers, though it may not happen anytime soon.” Alphonse Puthren’s character Soda Babu in 'Balti' has a quirky habit — he drinks tea from a glass tumbler. Similarly, Unni Sivalingam rolls a tea glass in his hand, eyes fixed on a 'Balti' to Tamil.