Lost childhoods and the intersection of trauma, care, and ethnic conflict in 'Punchi Suranganavi'

Abstract

Background: Children remain the most vulnerable in a world shaped by neglect, conflict, and division. Punchi Suranganavi (Little Angel), directed by Somaratne Dissanayake, provides a poignant exploration of child protection and gendered caregiving set against the backdrop of ethnic tensions in Sri Lanka. This study investigates how trauma, care, and ethnic conflict intersect to shape the psychological experiences of children, using the film as a case study. Method: A qualitative film analysis is employed, drawing on trauma studies, child psychology, and gender theory to analyze the portrayal of childhood trauma, cross-cultural caregiving, and gendered dynamics in Punchi Suranganavi. Results: The film depicts the psychological toll of ethnic conflict on children through Sampath, a young boy experiencing emotional trauma and parental separation, and Sathya, a Tamil girl who loses her father during the 1983 Sinhala-Tamil conflict. It highlights the healing potential of cross-cultural caregiving, as Sathya's bond with Sampath fosters emotional warmth and stability, demonstrating the role of empathy in overcoming cultural divides. The analysis also reveals the gendered nature of caregiving and its impact on emotional security and child development. Conclusions: Punchi Suranganavi underscores the importance of emotional well-being, language, and care in supporting children affected by conflict. The study advocates for inclusive social structures that prioritize protection, empathy, and cross-cultural understanding to help children heal from trauma and build resilience.