We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Shambhavi Jha a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Alright, Shambhavi thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Did you always know you wanted to pursue a creative or artistic career? When did you first know?
I am Shambhavi Jha, a filmmaker and classical vocalist currently pursuing my master’s degree at the New York Film Academy. My creative journey began when my mother discovered my singing talent, leading me to complete my undergraduate studies in Hindustani classical music at the University of Delhi, India.
In 2017, I ventured into multimedia and mass communication, opening the door to a wide range of creative projects. This was the time I started really enjoying the process, being on set and I thought this is what I want to pursue ahead. I gained experience as an assistant director in Indian daily soap productions and even launched my own successful musical show on a local news channel, “City Post Live,” which now boasts 1 million YouTube subscribers.
My journey continued with acceptance into the New York Film Academy, where I’ve worn multiple hats, including assistant director, production designer, script supervisor, and sound mixer. Over the past year, I’ve directed four impactful films, with my latest work being the short film “Gaslight.”
As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?
I am Shambhavi Jha, a filmmaker and classical vocalist currently pursuing my master’s degree at the New York Film Academy. My creative journey began when my mother discovered my singing talent, leading me to complete my undergraduate studies in Hindustani classical music at the University of Delhi, India.
In 2017, I ventured into multimedia and mass communication, opening the door to a wide range of creative projects. I gained experience as an assistant director in Indian daily soap productions and even launched my own successful musical show on a local news channel, “City Post Live,” which now boasts 1 million YouTube subscribers.
My journey continued with acceptance into the New York Film Academy, where I’ve worn multiple hats, including assistant director, production designer, script supervisor, and sound mixer. Over the past year, I’ve directed four impactful films, with my latest work being the short film “Gaslight.”
What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?
\The most rewarding aspect of my profession as a filmmaker is my genuine passion for the craft. I wholeheartedly love what I do, and that love for storytelling through film is what drives me to continually push the boundaries of creativity and innovation.
Beyond that, the opportunity to connect with new people is immensely fulfilling. Each project introduces me to a diverse cast and crew, and it’s a privilege to collaborate with them to bring stories to life on the screen.
As a filmmaker, I also get to explore new places through my lens. Whether it’s scouting locations for a shoot or capturing the essence of a new city or environment in a film, I’m constantly discovering the beauty of the world in fresh and captivating ways.
Moreover, brainstorming and collaborating with a wide range of individuals is a key part of the filmmaking process. Working with writers, actors, directors, and other creative minds is a constant source of inspiration. It’s incredible to see how different perspectives and ideas come together to shape a compelling narrative.
In essence, my profession as a filmmaker is not just a job; it’s a dynamic and fulfilling journey that allows me to combine my passion for storytelling with the joy of connecting with people, exploring new places, and bringing innovative ideas to life on the screen.
What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?
My unwavering passion for the art of filmmaking serves as a profound motivator in my career. Stepping onto a film set is an experience I cherish deeply, as it allows me to immerse myself in the creative process that I love the most.
Furthermore, I come from a region in India with a conservative mindset that often lacks understanding of this artistic form. This has ignited a desire within me to foster awareness and open up new opportunities for the people of my community. I aspire to bridge the gap between the art of filmmaking and the traditional values of my region.
A significant goal of mine is to use my films as a medium to showcase our rich culture and the mesmerizing world of Indian classical music. Through my work, I aim to raise awareness and appreciation for this exquisite art form, helping people connect with our heritage on a deeper level.
What truly fuels my passion is the ability to create something new every day and witness it come to life on the screen. It’s a source of immense joy, and I’m committed to continuing this creative journey, making meaningful contributions to the world of cinema and cultural awareness.
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Image Credits
Kushagra Jain