Celebrating Indie Cinema: The Impact of Punjabi Films at Cinevesture International Film Festival

The Essence of Independent Filmmaking

“Independent films carry a unique charm compared to mainstream successes.” — Diane Lane

The path of an independent filmmaker is often filled with challenges, and film festivals serve as a vital platform for showcasing their passion projects. As the Cinevesture International Film Festival returns to the City Beautiful for its second edition, numerous films, particularly from independent creators, highlight a strong connection to Punjab and Chandigarh.

Among the films featured during the four-day event are Zubin Mehta’s Bus No 7, Shashank Walia’s Hanere De Panchi, and Ankur Singla’s Ghich Pich, all of which are deeply rooted in Punjab's culture. Additionally, Honey Trehan’s The Blade Runner is currently in production. Anmol Sidhu, who received the Audience Choice Award at the Indian Film Festival of Los Angeles in 2022 and at CIFF last year, is working on his upcoming film Kikran De Phul, which explores the lives of orchestra dancers in Punjab and is part of the In the Works Lab.

A Deep Connection to Punjabi Culture

Chandigarh native Ankur Singla’s debut film Ghich Pich is set in the City Beautiful, where he created lasting memories during his upbringing. Zubin Mehta’s Bus No 7 also takes place in Chandigarh, centering much of its drama around a school bus. While not exclusively Punjabi, both films incorporate a blend of Hindi and Punjabi languages.

Ankur emphasizes that the essence of his film is distinctly Punjabi. Frustrated by the portrayal of Punjabi in Bollywood, he aimed to keep the language authentic, reflecting how it is spoken in many local households. However, he notes that language is merely a tool for expressing deeper themes. Ghich Pich tells the story of three friends navigating their complex relationships with their fathers. The film also touches on same-sex relationships, a theme echoed in Shashank Walia’s Hanere De Panchi. Shashank describes his film as a landscape piece that delves into human relationships, caste, religion, and sexuality.

Challenges and Community Support

Shashank elaborates that his film, which emphasizes love and care, imagines radical possibilities and explores how they can be achieved. Filmed in villages near Tarn Taran, he notes that the project faced numerous hurdles, from casting to financing. Surprisingly, the local community provided significant support.

Shashank humorously remarks that their film is not just independent but an 'indi-pind' film. He expresses concern that mainstream Punjabi cinema often overlooks the rich cultural heritage of Punjab, focusing instead on singer-turned-actors and avoiding innovation. Without government backing, which they all agree is crucial for the industry’s growth, festivals remain a lifeline for indie filmmakers. Shashank observes that even OTT platforms are becoming reminiscent of traditional television.

The Importance of Film Festivals

For filmmakers like Ankur, being selected for festivals is akin to receiving a recommendation. Shashank expresses his enthusiasm for the CIFF in Chandigarh, highlighting its potential long-term benefits in fostering an artistic community. Zubin, whose Bus No 7 was previously selected for the online edition of the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne, shares similar sentiments.

Zubin is particularly excited about the screening of Bus No 7 in Chandigarh, as it allows local actors to see themselves on the big screen. He believes that the film's universal themes will resonate with the audience. Ankur promises that Ghich Pich will provide an authentic glimpse into Chandigarh, a city whose significance he only fully appreciated after leaving. He reflects that the film's production transformed his understanding of the city and its architecture. Unlike commercial cinema, which often panders to audience expectations, these filmmakers strive to remain true to their artistic vision.