The Waterfront Indie Film Festival (WIFF) launched its Curtain Raiser event at the National Gallery of Modern Art (NGMA), Mumbai, bringing together leading voices from the independent film industry.
The event was moderated by acclaimed actor Richa Chadha and featured renowned filmmakers and critics including Shoojit Sircar, Rajat Kapoor, Deepa Gahlot, and Sridhar Rangayan. The panelists shared insights on evolving trends, innovations, and the future of independent cinema in India.
Richa Chadha highlighted the recently released Marathi indie film Sabar Bond as an inspiring example of how strong storytelling can create impact beyond commercial formulas. She emphasized that successful movements in Marathi and Malayalam indie cinema can serve as a guiding light for filmmakers across the country.
Speaking about the experience, Richa Chadha said “I’m thrilled to be part of the Waterfront Indie Film Festival, celebrating the spirit of independent cinema in India. It was an honor to moderate the discussion with such esteemed industry experts and showcase the challenges in terms of budgets, access and distribution that indie cinema faces. As an artist, I believe in the power of storytelling to challenge perspectives and inspire change. I’m excited to be part of a platform that amplifies the voices of independent filmmakers.
The lively discussion sparked engaging conversations about the opportunities and challenges indie filmmakers face today. Audiences were inspired by the passion, creativity, and experiences shared, underlining the growing significance of independent cinema in India.
Festival founder Vinta Nanda said, “WIFF is more than a festival; it is a movement. Its true power lies in uniting diverse voices, celebrating creativity, and inspiring independent storytelling.”
Co-founder and film critic Deepa Gahlot added, “The WIFF team is excited about the lineup of films and events, and we hope cinema-loving audiences enjoy the festival as much as we enjoyed putting it together.
The upcoming Waterfront Indie Film Festival, supported by Tuli Research Centre for India Studies (TRIS) as Knowledge and Education Partner, Applause Entertainment, and others, will take place from October 2–6 at Rangshila Theatre, Aram Nagar, Versova. The festival will showcase curated screenings of independent films along with panel discussions and masterclasses, creating a platform for emerging filmmakers to shine.
