New Delhi: Renowned Indian documentary filmmaker Anand Patwardhan, who has been creating films for over five decades, recently shared insights into his journey and the enduring relevance of his work. Patwardhan, known for documentaries such as ‘Bombay: Our City,’ ‘In the Name of God,’ and ‘Jai Bhim Comrade,’ expressed that despite addressing different issues over the years, the interconnected themes in his films remain relevant, highlighting the persistence of societal challenges.
Reflecting on his continuous activism through filmmaking, Patwardhan mentioned, “I feel like I have been saying the same thing for 50 years… The fact that they are still relevant can be depressing, as [it] means that things around have not changed much. Half my life I was fighting the Congress with my art, now it is BJP.” His films often touch on topics like religious fundamentalism, casteism, nuclear nationalism, and unsustainable development.
While some of Patwardhan’s documentaries faced censorship and legal challenges, they continue to resonate with audiences. He emphasized that feedback from unexpected quarters, such as a person involved in the Babri Masjid demolition who mentioned that ‘Ram Ke Naam’ woke him up, reinforces the impact of his work.
Patwardhan’s latest film, ‘The World is Family,’ offers a more personal perspective, exploring his family’s connections with India’s freedom movement and influential figures like Mahatma Gandhi and B.R. Ambedkar. The filmmaker, critical of the limited support for indigenously made films in the era of OTT platforms, remains committed to creating content in India and sees hope in independent filmmakers producing work even without significant funding.
As Patwardhan continues his cinematic journey, he remains dedicated to using his art as a tool for social awareness and change.
