Rhythm of Dammam

Synopsis

In Uttara Kannada, India, Jayaram Siddi, a twelve-year-old boy, is believed to be
possessed by the spirit of his late grandfather, Rama Bantu Siddi. Despite seeking
help from local black magicians, Jayaram's condition remains unchanged. He
escapes into a dream world, using 'magical' instruments from his grandfather to
connect with his ancestors. However, he becomes overwhelmed by the agonizing
history of his ancestors' chattel slavery, losing touch with reality. Jayaram drops out of school, and his family strives to restore his balance by embracing tribal rituals and Dammam music, both vital to their cultural heritage. The film delves into Jayaram's struggle with intergenerational trauma, emphasizing the challenges faced by him and his family in finding healing and stability.