It's great to be back at the Berlin Film Festival, even in six degree cold. The 70th Berlinale edition, headed by Artistic Director Carlo Chatrian, runs from February 20-March 1. I had a highly coveted invitation to the opening night gala, featuring Philippe Falardeau's My Salinger Year. It features Sigourney Weaver and Margaret Qualley as staff in the literary agency that represents JD Salinger. On introducing myself to the guest next to me, I discovered a new 'profession'. "What do you do?" I asked. "Seat filler," she replied. "Pardon?" "Oh, I'm a seat filler, filling the seat in case any invitee is unable to come, so the hall looks full." In fact, she's a cultural studies student—but such are the demands of live TV.

It's the 22nd year I've been working with the Berlinale, now as South Asia Delegate, pre-selecting South Asian films. I'm always grateful for the opportunity to do what I love, to help Indian and South Asian films shine on international platforms. It's a matter of pride for India that Assamese director Rima Das is on the Berlinale's Generation 14plus international jury for young adults, among others. Her Bulbul Can Sing had won a Generation 14plus Special Mention in Berlin in 2019. Das looked resplendent in a mekhela chador, and for all her many accomplishments worldwide, remains grounded as ever.