Kabir Khan on His Simple Creative Process and New Short Film Anthology

Renowned filmmaker Kabir Khan recently opened up about his creative process, emphasizing its simplicity while interacting with media at the MAMI Film Festival. He is currently involved in an exciting project—a short film anthology featuring esteemed directors such as Onir, Reema Das, and Imtiaz Ali.

Describing his creative approach, Khan stated, “It’s very simple. It’s not intellectual. Do what makes your heart happy.” He passionately spoke about the essence of storytelling, noting, “When you hear a story and think it’s beautiful, you want to tell it.” This belief underscores his commitment to crafting narratives that resonate with both him and his audience.

Khan also acknowledged the dedication required in filmmaking, remarking, “Whether it’s a short film or a feature film, making a film takes a year and a half, and the passion needed for it will only come when the story resonates deeply.” His insights reflect the intricacies involved in the filmmaking process, regardless of the project's scale.

This year holds particular significance for Khan, as he directed a short film in Melbourne for the anthology titled My Melbourne, which is set to premiere soon. He expressed his excitement, stating, “There’s double excitement because of this.” The anthology explores the vibrant city of Melbourne through the perspectives of four Indian directors, delving into the diverse diasporas that inhabit it.

Khan highlighted the unique nature of the anthology, explaining that it addresses various themes such as the struggles faced by individuals who leave their home countries. “We delve into how they face various challenges and how success comes to them, examining aspects like gender, sexuality, disability, race, and relationships,” he added. This thematic depth promises to provide audiences with a rich and multifaceted viewing experience.

Khan’s contribution to the anthology, titled Setara, tells the poignant story of a 16-year-old Afghan girl whose life is drastically altered by the Taliban takeover in Afghanistan. He elaborated, “She wants to play cricket and aims to settle her life in Melbourne through the sport.” The film sheds light on the Afghan women’s cricket team, showcasing their resilience and dreams as they find refuge in Melbourne.