An Inspiring Day with Kireet Khurana: Exploring the Intersection of Art and Advocacy

On a landmark day for the creative community in Kerala, DATSI, in collaboration with SAIK (Society of AVGC Institutions in Kerala), ASAP Kerala, and Toonz Academy, hosted an extraordinary event that brought together visionaries, educators, and aspiring artists under one roof. The focus? Exploring the transformative power of art in advocating for social change, led by none other than acclaimed filmmaker and storyteller Kireet Khurana.

Setting the Stage

The event began with an energetic introduction to the theme: The Intersection of Art and Advocacy. Kireet Khurana, with his exceptional portfolio of award-winning films and documentaries, was the ideal guide for this journey. With six National Awards and 16 international accolades to his name, Kireet has consistently demonstrated how art can be a powerful tool to amplify critical social issues.

A Peek Behind the Lens

As Kireet took the stage, he captivated the audience with insights into his filmmaking process. From ideation to execution, he detailed the meticulous thought and care that go into crafting stories that resonate deeply with audiences. He shared how his films like Komal and The Invisible Visible were born from an innate desire to shed light on issues often left in the shadows.

"Storytelling," Kireet explained, "is not just about entertaining; it’s about evoking empathy and driving change." He highlighted the importance of research and human connection in his projects, explaining how he spent months interacting with people experiencing homelessness for The Invisible Visible. These conversations, he noted, helped him shape a narrative that was not only authentic but also profoundly impactful.

The Creative Process

Kireet delved into the creative processes that breathe life into his films. He emphasized the importance of collaboration, stating, “A film is never made by one person; it’s the collective vision of a team.” Whether it was working with animators to bring Komal to life or partnering with social organizations to ensure accuracy, every step required synergy and a shared commitment to the cause.

He also shared anecdotes about the challenges of balancing artistic expression with the responsibility of advocacy. For instance, in T for Taj Mahal, he wanted to convey the significance of education in rural India without making the story preachy. The solution? A mix of humor, relatability, and heartfelt storytelling.

Audience Engagement

The Q&A session that followed was a testament to the audience's enthusiasm. Students, educators, and professionals alike asked Kireet about everything from his influences to the technical aspects of filmmaking. One particularly memorable moment was when a student asked how to maintain authenticity in advocacy films. Kireet’s response was simple yet profound: "Always listen. The stories you tell should come from the voices of those who live them."

A Vision for the Future

This event marked the beginning of a new chapter for Kerala’s AVGC ecosystem. With SAIK leading the charge, the vision is to establish Kerala as a global hub for animation, visual effects, gaming, and comics. Kireet’s presence and his inspiring words reinforced the importance of collaboration in achieving this goal.

A Collaborative Triumph

The event’s success wouldn’t have been possible without the joint efforts of SAIK, ASAP Kerala, DATSI, and Toonz Academy. Each organization brought its unique strengths to the table, creating a platform for meaningful dialogue and connection. ASAP Kerala’s commitment to future-proof education and accessible training centers was highlighted as a critical element in nurturing the next generation of creative professionals.

Wrapping Up

As the day concluded, participants left with not just a wealth of knowledge but also a renewed sense of purpose. The event’s interactive and engaging format ensured that everyone felt like a part of something bigger—a movement to use art as a catalyst for change.