MIFF 2024: Ketan Mehta and Industry Experts Discuss the Global Potential of Indian Animation

Mumbai: “India is a powerhouse of content. With high creative ambition and a global mindset, our content can go global,” said internationally acclaimed filmmaker Ketan Mehta during an engaging panel discussion at the 18th Mumbai International Film Festival (MIFF) today. Mehta, a pioneer in the field of animation and digital visual effects in India, asserted that the time for Indian animation films has come and they are ready to take off.

Highlighting significant issues affecting animation film production, Mehta pointed out that high production costs and limited distribution markets are major barriers. “We have to move out of this vicious cycle and make films with passion. If you are not happy with your own film, then let’s not make it,” he emphasized.

Participating in the panel discussion, Mohammed Kheirandish, a prolific Iranian writer, director, and character designer with over 19 years of experience in animation, emphasized that the content of his films reflects reality and local traditions, effectively reaching global audiences through animation. “A film that comes from the heart goes to a million hearts,” he stated.

Vaibhav Kumaresh, an International Emmy-nominated animation filmmaker and Founder and Creative Director at Vaibhav Studios, Mumbai, spoke about the essence of capturing the audience through animation. “I am the first audience of my film. If the film moves me, then it will certainly move my audience. Understanding the pulse of the audience is the most important thing,” he noted.

Jackky Bhagnani, one of the youngest producers in the Indian film industry, highlighted that India is an emerging powerhouse of content and talent that needs to be properly explored and nurtured. “With the kind of technology we are using these days, Indian animation films, given a proper platform, have the potential to rule the world in the coming years like feature films,” he stated.

The panelists collectively underscored the importance of passion, authenticity, and understanding the audience in creating compelling animation content. They called for greater support and investment in the Indian animation sector to overcome current barriers and unleash its global potential.