Makandra: RitmeMakandra: Ritme

Two documentaries explore Surinamese identity through the life of Papa Touwtjie and the history of kaseko music.

Makandra: Ritme brings together two documentaries about the role of language, music and popular culture in Surinamese identity. In Boyke, family members, friends and admirers tell the life story of Papa Touwtjie, who grew up in modest circumstances and later became a beloved folk figure. Their accounts sketch a portrait of a man whose voice and personality had a deep impact on Surinamese society. The second film, Langabere – An ode to Kaseko music, follows filmmaker Rosita Leeflang through the past and present of kaseko. Carried by the rhythm of the skrakidron, it shows how kaseko secured a place in Surinamese culture and grew into something people are proud of, that connects them and is remembered collectively.

Story written by Evenitto from the film catalogue