Exploring Father-Son Dynamics in Ankur Singla's Ghich Pich

A Unique Take on Fatherhood in Indian Cinema
Indian cinema frequently highlights the emotional bond between mothers and their children, often encapsulated in the phrase ‘mere pas maa hai.’ However, Ankur Singla, a filmmaker from Chandigarh, presents a fresh perspective on father-son relationships in his debut film, Ghich Pich. He emphasizes that while his film may not fit the traditional cinematic mold, it effectively showcases the complexities and conflicts inherent in fatherhood.
Ankur, who transitioned from law to entrepreneurship and now filmmaking, states, “As indie filmmakers, we approach storytelling differently and cannot replicate iconic dialogues; my work is grounded in realism.”
Having premiered at the Cinevesture International Film Festival in Chandigarh, Ghich Pich is set for a theatrical release on August 1. Ankur describes his film as a ‘mindie,’ blending elements of mainstream and independent cinema.
The narrative revolves around three teenagers grappling with challenging relationships with their fathers, drawing inspiration from Ankur's own experiences growing up in Chandigarh, rather than being strictly autobiographical.
Echoing the sentiments of renowned director Mira Nair, Ankur believes that personal stories can resonate universally. He asserts that through personal narratives, filmmakers can create works that connect with a broader audience. As a father of two, Ankur incorporates both the sons' and fathers' perspectives into the story, hoping it will aid him in navigating his son's teenage years in the future. The film promises to reveal the struggles of youth and the challenges of fatherhood.
Dedicated to the late actor Nitesh Pandey, who portrays a caring father, the film features eighteen-year-old Kabir Nanda as one of the main characters, Gurpreet Singh. Kabir has matured significantly during the film's production, and he credits Ankur's passion for filmmaking as a driving force behind the project.
Set in the early 2000s, Ghich Pich serves as Ankur's affectionate tribute to Chandigarh, showcasing its unique character. He captures lesser-known locales and incorporates authentic Hindi-Punjabi dialogue reflective of local households. The title itself is a colloquial expression that hints at the emotional turbulence teenagers face while growing up. While some may draw parallels to Boman Irani’s exploration of father-son relationships in The Mehta Boys, Ankur insists that his film offers a distinct perspective. He is confident that audiences, particularly those from Chandigarh, will find the story relatable and enjoy a fresh portrayal of their beloved city. Ultimately, the film aims to convey the essence of familial bonds, echoing Friedrich von Schiller's sentiment that “It is not flesh and blood, but heart which makes us fathers and sons.”