Vishal Bhardwaj and Shaunak Sen join new film fund initiative supporting independent cinema – Image for illustrative purposes only (Image credits: Pixabay)
Aspiring directors across India often find themselves stalled by the same obstacles: a strong script without the money to shoot it, limited production know-how, and few pathways into the festival circuit. A new co-production fund launched by Humans of Cinema and Safarnaama Pictures aims to remove those barriers for one emerging voice. The Rs 40 lakh initiative pairs financial backing with hands-on guidance from two of the country’s most respected filmmakers.
Why the Timing Matters for Independent Voices
Independent cinema in India has long relied on personal networks and sporadic grants, leaving many talented storytellers without a clear route forward. The new fund arrives at a moment when traditional avenues for first features are shrinking. By focusing on projects that can travel to international festivals while still resonating with local audiences, the initiative seeks to bridge that gap.
Founder Harshit Bansal of Humans of Cinema explained that the idea grew from a chance Instagram message with Nazim Momin of Safarnaama Pictures. Both shared the belief that India possesses abundant talent but lacks consistent support structures. Their collaboration now offers selected filmmakers not only money but also production infrastructure and distribution guidance.
Star Mentors Step In to Shape the Next Generation
Vishal Bhardwaj, whose films have earned global acclaim, described the need for people willing to trust new voices before wider recognition arrives. He expressed satisfaction at helping identify and nurture fearless young directors from across the country. Shaunak Sen, whose Academy Award-nominated documentary All That Breathes demonstrated a distinctive observational style, will serve as executive producer on the chosen project. Sen noted that independent platforms are narrowing and welcomed the chance to work directly with the winning script.
Their involvement signals more than prestige. The selected filmmaker will gain direct access to insights from two directors who have successfully navigated both critical and commercial landscapes. Kiterabbit Films, Sen’s production company, has also committed resources to strengthen the overall effort.
Experienced Jury to Select the Winning Project
A four-member jury will evaluate submissions and choose the recipient. The panel brings together varied perspectives from acting, directing, producing, and festival programming:
- Actor Imran Khan, who highlighted the urgent need for platforms that discover fresh talent.
- Filmmaker Arati Kadav, whose own work includes Cargo and Mrs, expressed eagerness to encounter bold new stories.
- Producer Aman Mann, known for All That Breathes, will assess production viability.
- Author and festival director Aseem Chhabra, who stressed the importance of helping first features reach global stages.
Each member voiced support for the fund’s goal of elevating Indian cinema on the world stage while remaining grounded in authentic local narratives.
Eligibility and How to Submit
The fund is open to Indian citizens aged 18 and older who have already completed at least two short films or one feature. Applicants must pay a non-refundable fee of Rs 1,499 to submit their projects. The process emphasizes scripts with a clear vision and distinct voice rather than polished budgets or star attachments.
Bansal stressed that the selected filmmaker will receive ongoing festival and distribution support beyond the initial production phase. This comprehensive approach aims to increase the chances that the finished film finds both critical acclaim and meaningful audiences.
By placing established names alongside emerging talent, the initiative offers a practical model for sustaining independent cinema. The real test will come when the first project moves from script to screen and begins its journey through festivals worldwide.
