IFFI 2024: Directors of ‘P for Paparazzi’ and ‘Bahi – Tracing My Ancestors’ Share Insights at Press Conference

Goa: The 55th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) continued to captivate audiences with its diverse selection of films and thought-provoking narratives. Today, directors from two standout films—P for Paparazzi and Bahi – Tracing My Ancestors—addressed the media, sharing their creative inspirations and the stories behind their works.

In a striking moment that perfectly encapsulated the theme of P for Paparazzi, Manoj, who portrays the lead character, found himself caught up in the festival’s excitement, pursuing none other than the legendary music director A. R. Rahman, who was attending IFFI for a Masterclass. This lively scene echoed the film’s central theme: the paradox of chasing fame while being consumed by it. Manoj, known for his humility and reluctance to seek the spotlight, was seen in his element—always at work and focused on the next big moment.

Divya Hemant Kharnare, the director of P for Paparazzi, discussed his fascination with the world of paparazzi and the complex nature of their lives. “I was interested to peek into the lives of people who peek into the lives of others and what happens to them when the camera turns to them,” Kharnare said. He recalled how, as a child, he was drawn to the glamour sections of newspapers and later became intrigued by the methods paparazzi use to capture fleeting moments. Kharnare expressed his ambition to present a nuanced portrayal of paparazzi culture, countering the one-dimensional portrayals often seen in the media.

On the other hand, Rachita Gorowala, director of Bahi – Tracing My Ancestors, delved into the traditions of Haridwar’s Teerth Purohits, a unique group of priests who have preserved ancestral histories through sacred records known as Bahis. These records, entwined with the symbolic flow of the Ganges, represent an eternal cycle of life and continuity. Gorowala shared that the film not only highlights the rituals and practices of this heritage but also the deeper philosophy of eternity embedded in it. She noted that the project was born from thorough research and a deep exploration of Haridwar’s rich cultural and spiritual landscape.

Both directors highlighted their film’s focus on themes of legacy, identity, and the complexities of human nature. While P for Paparazzi offers a behind-the-scenes look at the relentless pursuit of fame, Bahi – Tracing My Ancestors emphasizes the profound connection between personal history and the timeless essence of life. Their insights provided a glimpse into the unique storytelling that continues to enrich the cinematic world at IFFI 2024.