In this exclusive interview, Kamath reflects on his international recognition, the meaning behind his achievements, and the stories that continue to inspire him
Eeshan Kamath
Few filmmakers have managed to bridge the gap between Indian storytelling and global acclaim quite like Eeshan Kamath. His remarkable journey is marked by a series of international achievements that have put him at the forefront of contemporary cinema. Kamath’s short film "The Day I Met Benjamin" was officially selected for the prestigious Within the Family International Festival of Family and Children's Films in Russia, the country’s largest family film festival, which draws entries from over 20 nations and is renowned for its celebration of family values and cross-cultural storytelling. He followed this with "A Night To Remember," which earned a coveted place at the SmallRig Awards-one of the most competitive global platforms for socially conscious filmmakers, judged by an Oscar-winning panel and drawing nearly 4,000 entries from over 120 countries. His film "Dwindled Ties" has swept awards at the Athvikvaruni, Sittannavasal, and Mokkho International Film Festivals, and has been officially selected at the Paradise, Eastern Europe, Makizhmithran, and Thilsri International Film Festivals, earning recognition for its innovative storytelling and universal appeal. Recently, the film was nominated in the final round of Indie Short fest, in Los Angeles.
In this exclusive interview, Kamath reflects on his international recognition, the meaning behind his achievements, and the stories that continue to inspire him.
Your film "The Day I Met Benjamin" was showcased at Russia’s largest family film festival. How did it feel to see your work resonate with audiences so far from home? What do you think made your story connect across cultures?
It was both humbling and exhilarating. When you make a film rooted in universal values like family, love, and hope, you always wish it will find a global audience. Seeing people from different backgrounds respond emotionally to my work was a powerful reminder that good storytelling can transcend language and geography. I believe the themes I explore are universal, and that’s what allowed the film to connect so widely.
"A Night To Remember" was selected for the SmallRig Awards, a competition known for its focus on social issues and its international jury. What does this recognition mean for you as a filmmaker, and how does it shape your future projects?
Being recognised by an international jury, especially one led by an Academy Award winner, is an incredible honour. It’s a validation of the hard work and the risks you take as a filmmaker. This kind of recognition motivates me to continue telling stories that matter, to push boundaries, and to use cinema as a tool for social change. It also opens up new opportunities and collaborations, which I’m very excited about.
Your film "Dwindled Ties" has been celebrated at numerous international festivals, winning awards and official selections across continents. What do these accolades mean to you personally, and how do they influence your creative process?
Each award and selection is a milestone, but more than that, it’s an affirmation that the stories I want to tell have a place in the world. It encourages me to stay true to my vision and to keep experimenting with new ideas and forms. The international recognition also brings a sense of responsibility-to represent Indian cinema on the world stage and to inspire other filmmakers from my country to dream big.
Many of your films have been recognised for their social relevance and artistic innovation. How important is it for you to balance these two elements, and do you think international audiences are looking for both?
Striking a balance between social relevance and artistic expression is at the core of my filmmaking. I believe that a film must engage the audience emotionally and intellectually. International audiences, in my experience, are very receptive to stories that are both meaningful and creatively told. They appreciate authenticity and innovation, and that’s what I strive to deliver in every project.
With your growing international profile, what advice would you give to Indian filmmakers aspiring to reach a global audience?
My advice would be to stay authentic and fearless. Tell the stories that matter to you, but always keep in mind that the world is listening. Don’t be afraid to experiment, and never underestimate the power of your own voice. The world is more connected than ever, and there’s a genuine appetite for diverse perspectives and fresh narratives.
As Kamath continues to break new ground and bring Indian stories to the global stage, his journey serves as an inspiration for a new generation of filmmakers-proving that with vision, passion, and perseverance, Indian cinema can truly speak to the world.
Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here!
