Rishi Pathak- New Indian Film (Rising Documentary Film Director)

Edition Thirty-Nine- Week Thirty-Nine:

Written by: Mercedes Barreto

Rishi grew up in a middle-class family.
His father was in the army, so they lived a disciplined life. He has 3 brothers and is the second eldest. His elder brother works for a company, and one of his younger brothers has a music label.

He was accepted to study Engineering at the University of Chester in the UK, but lacking support from his family opted to attend a university in Calcutta, where he completed his degree. In college, Rishi was into sports. However, even as a former Cricket Team Captain, he didn’t go into sports as a profession because there was little family influence or support. So, he chose differently and went into a different field.

He decided to join the college theater group in his third year of college studies. He then got hooked on the film industry because of two big-time female filmmakers, who were his biggest inspiration. “When I was in my first year, I got influenced by a female filmmaker Aparna Sen. Her movie 15 Park Avenue, that’s how cinema influence came into my life. My second-best favorite filmmaker is Indian American director Mira Nair. Her film, Monsoon Wedding, had a significant impact on me.” In his third year of college, he joined a theatre group, “Rangakarmee,” led by the late Usha Ganguli. Later on, after finishing his college degree, he went to FTII, Pune, where he did his first film, “The Puppet Master.”

“I worked in Mumbai, learning my trade, with some renowned directors and producers on commercial films for many years.”

When he attended an Indian film festival at the time, he was interested in exploring different world-themed cinema. He eventually got to work with a government channel, DOORDARSHAN, where he worked on many docu-dramas on Indian freedom fighters. He wanted to learn more about culture, lifestyle, and European and American history. Everyone has a calling; his dream was always to win an Oscar. He jokingly loved the idea of even naming a future child Oscar.

His favorite all-time actor is Javier Bardem, and his favorite Indian actor is Rahul Bose. His favorite female actress is Megan Fox. In his spare time, Rishi enjoys his own company in the mountains. When he has time, he does trekking and hiking. Writing and exploring, reading novels and books. These are among his favorite hobbies.

What is your daily passion and drive? What is your prime motivation?

“I am reading as much as possible. Try to watch at least one movie every day. I am learning new things and innovative, creative ideas to improve or make something unique.”

What marks the beginning of your field as a different kind of filmmaker? How are you different?

“My sensibilities towards society and the way I nurtured myself. Every person has a unique approach to cinema.”

Where do you believe you have made or will make cinematic history? Why and how so?

“I came from an army background family. Discipline was always in the family. So I had a different way of doing things and approaching life. I didn’t want to do a routine life work. So In college, I was influenced by Bengali filmmaker Aparna Sen cinema. That was the turning point for me.”

How would you describe your daily routine as a filmmaker?

“Creative brainstorming and ideation, always thinking of new ideas and/or ways to improve the project I’m working on. Planning and pre-production once the project has been greenlit.”

What is an excellent way to describe the excitement and thrill of being on or behind the movie set?

“Being on or behind the movie set is an exhilarating experience that is difficult to describe. The fast-paced environment, creative energy, and collaboration between cast and crew create a sense of excitement and accomplishment. There’s a buzz and tension in the air as everyone works towards a common goal of bringing the story to life on screen. Every day is different and presents new challenges, which keeps the excitement going. But the satisfaction of seeing your vision come to life is unparalleled.”

What is the one thing you believe can be changed through your particular take on documentary-style productions? Is this something relevant or important?

“I focus on presenting clear narratives that are more engaging and accessible to viewers. Documentary-style productions are essential in informing and educating people about important issues and topics. With the help of advanced technologies, including AI, we can make them even more effective.”

Where can we learn more about the iconic documentary filmmaker Rishi Pathak, and why should we? What makes this concept or theme unique?

“Because I have a unique ability to capture and tell stories, they can shed light on underrepresented communities, provide insights into complex social issues, and inspire audiences to take action. I’m currently working on a documentary feature, “sadhus shamans cannabis. “It’s a bottomless ocean of wisdom subject and other than this, I’m working on a short film called “Married to a Saint.””

Tell us a little about your new film? 

“Well, I’m working on a new documentary feature, entitled, “Sadhus Shamans Cannabis”. We are currently in the researching and writing phase. At the same time, we are recording sadhus and shamans around India and Nepal. It’s a very deep and rooted subject.”

At last, we are asking about your personal life. When are you getting married?

“Right now, I’m single and enjoying it. But, of course, it would help if you had the right companion, which is essential.”

To learn more about Rishi Pathak and his work, you can find his social media below.

Instagram: @thevagabondrishi