The Cinevesture International Film Festival is back in Chandigarh. This year’s edition features independent films deeply connected to Punjab and Chandigarh.
Three films, Bus No 7, Hanere De Panchi, and Ghich Pich, are set to showcase Punjabi stories. Director Honey Trehan’s The Blade Runner is also in the market, and past winner Anmol Sidhu is working on his new project, Kikran De Phul.
Ankur Singla’s Ghich Pich is inspired by his memories of growing up in Chandigarh. Meanwhile, Zubin Mehta’s Bus No 7 plays out inside a school bus and mixes Hindi and Punjabi language elements.
Shashank Walia’s Hanere De Panchi explores themes of caste, religion, and sexuality. He believes filmmakers should push boundaries rather than follow trends set by mainstream Punjabi cinema.
Challenges like casting and financing are constant hurdles for indie filmmakers. However, strong community support has helped bring some unique stories to life.
For these filmmakers, festivals like CIFF are a lifeline. They provide exposure, recognition, and inspire artists to stay true to their vision, despite the dominance of commercial cinema.
Zubin Mehta is excited to screen Bus No 7 in Chandigarh. Ankur Singla echoes the sentiment, hoping Ghich Pich offers a fresh, real view of the city. These films, rooted in personal and cultural narratives, promise an authentic cinematic experience.