Goa: The 55th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) kicked off its Non-Feature Film category today with the Ladakhi-language short film Ghar Jaisa Kuch, directed by independent filmmaker Harsh Sangani. This significant entry marks the first Ladakhi film to open the Non-Fiction category at the prestigious festival, drawing attention to the untold stories from the region.
Ghar Jaisa Kuch explores the universal theme of the internal conflict between adhering to one’s inherited traditions and chasing future aspirations. The film uniquely portrays this struggle through the spirits of the protagonist’s parents, who play a pivotal role in shaping his journey. Set against the stunning backdrop of Ladakh, the film captures the region’s language, traditions, and essence, creating an emotionally powerful narrative for its audience.
At a press conference held by PIB during the festival, director Harsh Sangani shared the deeply personal inspiration behind the film. “I always had the story within me, but it never materialized into reality until now. I resonated with the main character’s struggles of trying to find a home that once existed, as I have also experienced similar situations in my own life,” said Sangani.
The film delves into the emotional journey of individuals who leave their hometowns in search of better prospects, only to be haunted by the nostalgia of the place they once called home. “We wanted to make the audience feel the yearning for a place that once held comfort and warmth,” added the director, explaining the film’s title, Ghar Jaisa Kuch (Something like Home).
Shri Kabir Naik, the film’s Director of Photography, also spoke about the challenges and rewards of filming in Ladakh. “Shooting in such places was a dream, but it was also quite overwhelming. We had to work extra hard to ensure that the characters stood out amidst the breathtaking scenery,” he remarked.
Sangani, who hopes to connect with viewers not only in Ladakh but across India, expressed his excitement about the film’s inclusion in IFFI. “We’ve just finished making the film, and we haven’t shown it to an audience yet. I hope people will identify with the story and find something familiar in it,” he said.
The Non-Feature Film category at IFFI this year received 262 entries, with only 20 films selected for screening. This highlights the increasing visibility of regional cinema in India, especially from underrepresented areas like Ladakh, and underscores the festival’s commitment to showcasing diverse storytelling formats, including documentaries and short films.
With Ghar Jaisa Kuch, the spotlight is now on the rich and untold stories of Ladakh, contributing to a broader appreciation of regional cinema in India.
