A captivating 100-episode teledrama, Massa, recently concluded its journey, leaving its mark on viewers with a plot worthy of Netflix. The show boasts a highly talented cast, although it must be noted that the production could have fine-tuned its flow, especially the sound balance and audio, to enhance the overall experience.
The heart of Massa lies in shedding light on a group of people who are often overlooked in society – unwanted children who grow up without any knowledge of their origins, without names, birth certificates, or any semblance of identity. Massa (Dasun Pathirana) himself, discovered by Guna (Sarath Kotalawala) and Shanthi (Harshika Rathnayake), was abandoned and found near a filthy drain, leading them to adopt him and name him Massa, after the birthplace of flies. Guna, a humble tea boutique owner renowned for his delicious “rottis”, lacked formal education, which consequently deprived Massa of any schooling as well. Massa grew up among a group of boys facing the same predicament – devoid of proper names and parentage. Illiterate and marginalised or excluded from society, they resorted to unaccepted means to earn a living.
The teledrama skilfully portrays the struggle of these individuals, who are among us but often reduced to begging or selling trinkets, resorting to petty theft and pickpocketing. Even when they recognise the possibility of a better life, countless barriers impede their progress. Massa sensitively highlights the crippling power of these barriers, showcasing the struggle they endure to fulfil even their basic needs, let alone experience love and affection. How can one express love to another when they lack a name to introduce themselves?
The brilliance of Massa lies in its stellar cast, including Dasun Pathirana, Kavindya Dulshani, Sarath Kothalawala, Ananda Kumaraunnahe, Maheshi Madushanka, Sanjeewa Disanayaka, Harshika Ratnayake, Poojani Bhagya, and Poojana Dandeniya. The roles of Buwa, Diga, and Galiya, portrayed by Jenat Anthony, Chathura Rajapaksha, and Viraj Madushan, shine as Massa’s close-knit clique, where people with similar problems find a strong bond. In the drama, each actor perfectly embodies their character, making it evident that the teledrama industry has a promising future with talents like them. Veteran actors like Sarath Kothalawala and relative newcomer Ananda Kumaraunnahe excel in their roles, while the young actors deliver performances that resonate with the audience. The youngest member of the cast, child actress Thenuji Vinara, displays immense promise for a bright future as an actress.
Director Indika Dharmathilaka deserves commendation for skilfully highlighting the issues faced by this marginalised group, portraying their struggles with illiteracy and manipulation by those in power. The storytelling produces empathy, bringing forth tearful moments that connect viewers deeply with the characters. The distressing scene of Galiya’s death, the youngest member of Massa’s group who seeks a more extravagant life but meets a tragic end, tugged at the heartstrings. The touching gesture of his old friends, honouring his memory by starting an education centre for similar children, serves as a powerful testament to their unbreakable bond.
As the teledrama draws to a close, it leaves us pondering a profound question. Throughout his life, Massa dreams of a brighter future and strives to improve the lives of himself and his friends, steering them away from their past of unaccepted ways to make a living. However, the series concludes with a touching moment where Massa finds himself chasing after two boys who snatch money from him, evoking memories of his past and highlighting the ongoing struggles faced by individuals like him. This ending reminds the audience of the simple truth that such lives continue to grapple with challenges even amidst efforts for a better life.
Massa is a teledrama that delves into the core of societal issues, presenting an engaging narrative of identity, struggle, and hope. While the production could have improved certain technical aspects, the exceptional cast and direction more than make up for it. Massa has undoubtedly left a lasting impression, leaving its viewers with a profound understanding of the challenges faced by those often disregarded in society.
The views and opinions expressed in this column are those of the author, and do not necessarily reflect those of this publication.