Comrade – Sri Lanka – 29th August

29th August

‘’Comrade’’ – Sri Lanka
Directed by Jinidu Padma Sri Bandara

A video of Theekshana, a professional thief, goes viral after being shared on social media. The video, which shows a staged theft meant to end his relationship, leads to widespread public attention and influences the court to hold his trial before an open jury. During the trial, Theekshana reveals how his life has been shaped by exploitation and the systemic theft by corporations in the country.

As people across Sri Lanka post videos of thefts, Theekshana becomes a symbol of resistance, with many calling him a “Robin Hood.” Despite evidence presented to clear his name, Theekshana decides to remain in the trial. Ultimately, he empowers the jury to decide his fate, stating that he doesn’t want to be a hero, but leaves it to the people to choose whether they need one.