On October 25, 2024, I had the privilege of premiering my short film, Ravi, at Sheffield Hallam University’s Void Cinema. This project has been close to my heart, as it explores themes of cultural resentment and the impact of growing up as a British-born South Asian in a predominantly white town like Grantham. For me, Ravi is a story that sheds light on the quiet but enduring effects of racism and cultural disconnect that so many South Asians face in the UK.
I co-hosted the event alongside Jagraj Singh, who screened his own film, Mistaken Identity. Jagraj’s work also addresses the struggles of being a South Asian in the UK, particularly around issues of racism and stereotyping. The synergy between our films created a powerful foundation for the evening, as both works brought forward the experiences of feeling like an outsider in a place that is supposed to feel like home.
A Sold-Out Event and a Meaningful Discussion
The tickets sold out in just six hours, which was a humbling reminder of the resonance these stories have. The turnout exceeded expectations, and we were able to create a welcoming atmosphere with food and drinks, setting the tone for an evening of meaningful interaction.
The highlight for me was the discussion that followed the screening. During the Q&A, people shared their reactions, with some relating to the experiences depicted in the film and others surprised to learn about the racism South Asians face. It was powerful to see the dialogue bridging those who had lived through similar challenges and those for whom this reality was new. One memorable conversation was about taking Ravi into schools; viewers expressed that a film like this would have helped them during their own school years. This resonated deeply with me, as I wish I’d had such representation growing up—something that could have affirmed my cultural identity in the face of adversity.
Gratitude and Moving Forward
I want to extend a heartfelt thank you to everyone who made Ravi possible. This film would not exist without the support of our generous donors, the incredible cast and crew, and everyone who contributed to bringing this story to life. Thank you for believing in this vision and for helping me bring it to audiences in such a meaningful way.
Now, I’m looking forward to my next project—a longer film, possibly exploring a different genre but still holding onto themes of cultural identity and resilience. I hope to continue creating stories that inspire conversations and open perspectives.
Inspiring South Asian Voices in Film
With Ravi, I also wanted to inspire other South Asian voices to step into the world of filmmaking and creative arts. As a South Asian, there’s often an expectation to pursue traditional careers, such as law, medicine, or academia. But I believe it’s essential for young people to see that a career in the creative arts is equally valid and achievable, no matter your background. I hope my work can serve as a case study—a reminder that as a brown person, you can be a filmmaker, and your stories deserve to be told.
You can view the trailer to the film and more about the project here! Please contact me for a private link to view the film as it is currently doing its festival circuit.
