Rahi Anil Barve Reflects on the Perils of Original Filmmaking in Bollywood
As his highly anticipated film Mayasabha prepares for its theatrical release this Friday, director Rahi Anil Barve has opened up about the daunting challenges faced by independent filmmakers in India. In an exclusive interview, Barve shared a sobering perspective on the industry, emphasizing that despite efforts to rally support, little has changed for indie cinema.
The Struggle for Screens and Support
Barve's comments come in the wake of recent events, such as Kanu Behl's Agra, which struggled to secure screens amid competition from big-budget commercial films. What began as a tweet from Behl evolved into a movement, with filmmakers like Payal Kapadia, Rima Das, and Chaitanya Tamhane joining the cause to highlight the inequities plaguing independent films. However, Barve remains skeptical about the impact of such advocacy.
"I know one thing for sure: nobody wants to support you," Barve stated bluntly. "This is a blazing iron we chose to hold ourselves. We are indeed very well aware of the problems that come with making such films." He revealed that Mayasabha had no backing during its production, leaving him astonished that it was ever completed. "Sometimes I'm shocked because this film should have been shut down at least 50 times," he admitted.
The Reality of Indie Filmmaking
Barve elaborated on the futility of seeking external validation or support, noting that even gathering hundreds of signatures from fellow filmmakers would not alter the status quo. "So now, no matter how much you shout, how much support you try to get, even if you get 100, 150, or 300 signatures, it's not going to change anything," he asserted. This stark reality underscores the resilience required to pursue original storytelling in today's cinematic landscape.
He clarified that Mayasabha is entirely distinct from his previous cult classic, Tumbbad, describing it as "its own beast" with original characters and narrative. "And it is extremely risky to create something original in today's times," Barve emphasized, suggesting that this risk contributes to the industry's current state.
Relying on Word of Mouth and Pride in Experimentation
Despite the challenges, Barve expressed confidence in Mayasabha's potential, pinning his hopes on word-of-mouth promotion over the opening weekend. "The only thing that will sustain this film is word of mouth," he explained, highlighting the importance of public relations in ensuring audiences are aware of its theatrical run. "For that, PR is essential, and you can see how we are battling for it."
Barve and his team are not deterred by the obstacles, viewing them as an inherent part of their creative choice. "We are not nervous or scared at all. This is a risk we have consciously taken," he declared. With pride, he noted that the film is set to release on 500 to 600 screens, a significant achievement for an indie project. "We are very proud of the experiment we are doing," he added, underscoring their commitment to innovative storytelling.
Broader Implications for the Film Industry
Barve's insights shed light on the broader struggles within Bollywood, where commercial pressures often overshadow artistic originality. His experience with Mayasabha serves as a microcosm of the indie film ecosystem, where filmmakers must navigate financial constraints, limited screen access, and a lack of institutional support.
As Mayasabha hits theatres, Barve's reflections offer a poignant reminder of the courage required to defy industry norms. While the road ahead remains uncertain, his unwavering dedication to original content continues to inspire a new generation of filmmakers striving to make their mark in Indian cinema.
