Two distinctive voices in contemporary Indian cinema explore the evolution of storytelling, the balance between art and accessibility, and the responsibility to support independent voices. Kiran Rao’s films – from Dhobi Ghat (2010) to Laapataa Ladies (2023) – have garnered critical and popular acclaim. But beyond directing, Rao has championed emerging filmmakers and independent cinema, recently coming on board groundbreaking indie projects as executive producer. In conversation with film editor and DIFF’s Director of Programming, Bina Paul, they discuss how filmmakers can navigate the fine balance between maintaining artistic integrity and reaching wider audiences.
