We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Shilpa Johar a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Alright, Shilpa thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. When did you first know you wanted to pursue a creative/artistic path professionally?
The moment I knew I wanted to pursue a creative path professionally wasn’t sudden. It was a series of experiences that gradually revealed themselves over time. Growing up, I was always fascinated by stories and the way they could transport you to other worlds, but the real shift came when I was studying Psychology and Journalism. During that period, I was learning to understand human behavior and communication, which made me realize that storytelling was more than just a pastime, it was a way to connect deeply with people.
The true turning point came when I started working on my first short film. I had always been drawn to films, but it wasn’t until I was actually behind the camera that I felt this deep sense of alignment with what I was doing. There was something about translating raw emotion into a visual narrative, guiding a story from an idea into something tangible, that gave me a sense of purpose I hadn’t felt before. It felt like everything I had done up to that point – my studies, my love for stories, my fascination with human connection, was leading me to this.
I remember shooting my first scenes, with a very small crew, feeling that sense of flow where time almost ceases to exist because you’re so immersed in the creative process. It was in that moment that I knew: this is what I want to do for the rest of my life. Film became a way for me to explore human experiences and share those stories with the world, and from that point on, I decided to fully commit to pursuing filmmaking professionally.
The process wasn’t easy. Convincing my family was one of the first challenges, but their support eventually came as they saw my passion and commitment. And when my short film “Nange Pair” garnered over 22 million views, it validated that decision. That journey from my initial hesitation to diving fully into the world of film has been one of the most rewarding paths I’ve ever taken. It’s shaped who I am as a filmmaker and storyteller, and it’s a decision I’ll never regret.
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’m a filmmaker, creative director, and producer, with a passion for telling stories that resonate on a deep emotional level. My journey into the industry began with a strong foundation in Psychology and Journalism, which shaped how I approach storytelling – rooted in understanding human behavior and emotions. However, my true leap into filmmaking came when I moved to Los Angeles on a scholarship to study at the New York Film Academy. It was there that I fully committed to this craft, combining my love for stories with the technical aspects of filmmaking.
I specialize in creating a range of visual narratives, from independent films to music videos and documentary-style content. My work is deeply focused on authenticity and emotional depth, and I strive to create films that not only entertain but also inspire reflection. My short films, “Nange Pair” and “Bageecha,” are great examples of this. “Nange Pair” a simple and raw narrative has garnered over 22 million views on YouTube, a testament to how deeply audiences connected with its authenticity. “Bageecha,” another project close to my heart, explores themes of family, resilience and sacrifice, and has been selected for the 28th LA Shorts International Film Festival, a major milestone in my career. It was also 60% crowd funded which goes to show that audiences can believe in your vision and story!
In addition to independent films, I’ve worked on significant projects like **Jane Goodall’s Day of Peace** event, where I led the production of a globally streamed event focused on peace and sustainability. This project allowed me to combine my creative skills with a cause that deeply resonates with me, using storytelling as a way to amplify critical global conversations.
What sets me apart from others is my ability to balance creative vision with the practicalities of production. I understand that every story has its own rhythm and pace, and I take pride in ensuring that every aspect of production – from pre-production planning to post-production—is handled with precision and care. My work isn’t just about delivering a final product, it’s about creating something that genuinely moves people, sparks conversations, and leaves a lasting impact.
One of the things I’m most proud of is the ability to stay authentic in an industry that can sometimes prioritize commercial success over meaningful storytelling. My projects are always rooted in truth and vulnerability, whether it’s a short film, a music video, or a large-scale event.
For potential clients, collaborators, and followers, I want you to know that my work is about creating with integrity. I’m drawn to projects that have purpose, whether that’s elevating a story that needs to be told or creating visual art that challenges or inspires. If you’re looking for someone who brings passion, creativity, and meticulous attention to detail to every project, I’d love to collaborate with you.
What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?
From my higher self, my creative journey is driven by a mission to connect, uplift, and transform. The core of my work is to use storytelling as a vehicle for deeper human connection—both with ourselves and with others. I believe that through authentic, emotionally resonant stories, we can bridge divides, foster empathy, and spark meaningful conversations that transcend cultural and societal boundaries.
Creativity for me is a way to explore the unseen layers of human experience. My mission is to create narratives that reflect both the light and the shadow within us, embracing the full spectrum of life. This journey isn’t just about producing art but about being in service to something greater – whether that’s spiritual growth, healing, or inspiring others to step into their own truth.
Ultimately, I want my work to serve as a mirror for people to see themselves more clearly, to reflect on their own lives, and to feel empowered to evolve. It’s about contributing to the collective consciousness, knowing that each story, film, or project has the potential to create ripples that go far beyond the screen. My mission is about more than creativity – it’s about contributing to a larger awakening, where art becomes a tool for self-awareness, growth, and love.
Are there any books, videos or other content that you feel have meaningfully impacted your thinking?
Several resources have significantly shaped my management philosophy and entrepreneurial thinking, particularly through the lens of spirituality and consciousness. One of the most impactful platforms has been Gaia, where I’ve immersed myself in documentaries and content focused on personal growth, consciousness, and global awareness. The films on Gaia go beyond entertainment—they explore deep spiritual and philosophical themes, offering insights into how we as individuals can contribute to a more conscious and connected world. Watching these documentaries has expanded my understanding of leadership, not just as a role in business, but as a means of fostering a deeper connection with people and purpose. They remind me that creativity and management are about balance – between vision and execution, personal growth and professional responsibility.
In terms of books, “The Secret” by Rhonda Byrne was a game-changer for me early on. It introduced me to the concept of the Law of Attraction and the power of mindset in shaping not just your personal life but also your professional journey. This book shifted how I approach challenges, helping me understand that what we focus on expands and that cultivating a mindset of abundance and possibility can lead to extraordinary outcomes. It taught me that our thoughts and energy can be just as powerful as our actions in achieving success.
Another profound influence has been Eckhart Tolle’s works, particularly “The Power of Now” and “A New Earth”. Tolle’s teachings on presence, mindfulness and detachment from ego have had a deep impact on how I approach my work. His emphasis on being present in the moment, rather than being attached to outcomes has helped me remain calm and centered, even in high-pressure situations. Tolle’s philosophy has influenced my entrepreneurial thinking by reinforcing the idea that creativity flows best when we are aligned with our true selves, not distracted by external expectations or future anxieties.
In addition to the resources that have shaped my entrepreneurial and management thinking, I consider myself a true feminist and a strong advocate for women’s empowerment. I’m deeply inspired by the idea of feminine strength that is both soft and fierce, a balance I’ve embraced in my leadership style. One of the key influences in this regard has been Devdutt Pattanaik’s book, “7 Secrets of the Goddesses.” This book dives into the stories of various goddesses from Indian mythology, exploring their symbolism and what they represent in terms of feminine power and resilience. Through this, I’ve learned to appreciate the balance between nurturing and assertiveness in leadership, embodying a style that is both empathetic and strong.
As a girl’s girl, I believe in uplifting other women, celebrating our collective strength, and supporting each other in personal and professional spaces. The concepts from **Pattanaik’s** book have allowed me to integrate that feminine energy into my management approach – understanding that being firm doesn’t mean sacrificing kindness,and that leading with compassion is a strength, not a weakness.
Image Credits
Headshot by Ritika Telang