Capturing Faith, Nature, and Culture: A Conversation with the Filmmaker of Mukhwa

1. What inspired you to create "Mukhwa," and how did you decide on its central theme of the soul of nature and culture?

After completing Pahadon Ki Goonj, my D.O.P. and long-time collaborator Vaibhav Rawat told me about Mukhwa, a village near Gangotri known as the home of Maa Ganga. As we researched the village, we discovered fascinating stories shared by the locals, which deeply moved us and inspired us to make this film. When we visited Mukhwa in December 2025 and spoke with priests and residents, we experienced its spiritual purity firsthand. The crystal-clear waters of the Ganga and the deep faith of the people became the heart of the documentary. To fund the film, I even sold my iPhone 17, but capturing this story made every sacrifice worthwhile.

2. Could you share some insights into the challenges you faced during the filming of "Mukhwa" and how you overcame them?

Although the project seemed straightforward on paper, filming in Mukhwa came with several challenges. We had to arrange accommodation, gain access to certain locations, and work around strict schedules for temple rituals. A local policeman, Bhupender Laser, was extremely supportive and helped us connect with the temple priest and find a homestay. Since parts of the area were under military jurisdiction, careful planning was essential, especially for drone shots. With the support of the local community and the blessings of Maa Ganga, we successfully completed the film. By the end, we felt that we had not chosen the story—it had chosen us.

3. "Mukhwa" was recognized at the 10th Indian Panorama International Film Festival. What does this recognition mean to you personally and professionally?

The selection of Mukhwa at the 10th Indian Panorama International Film Festival in Mumbai was a proud and emotional moment for me and my mother, who is also the film's co-producer. Festival Director Vikrant More appreciated our work and strongly supported our films. His encouragement helped Pahadon Ki Goonj and Mukhwa reach wider audiences, including screenings at the 79th Cannes Film Festival in 2026. Receiving appreciation from audiences and industry professionals at such prestigious platforms has been both personally rewarding and professionally motivating.

4. What message or feeling do you hope viewers take away from watching "Pahadon Ki Goonj"?

I hope viewers understand the importance of staying connected to their roots and contributing to the development of their own communities. While moving away for opportunities may seem easy, leaving home is often difficult. During the lockdowns, we witnessed many people returning to their hometowns and finding comfort, belonging, and happiness. Through Pahadon Ki Goonj, I hope audiences reflect on the value of home, community, and working together to create a better future for the next generation.

5. As a filmmaker, who or what are your greatest influences, and how have they shaped your work?

Although I am a 90s kid, my biggest influences have been filmmakers such as Yash Chopra, especially Lamhe and Veer-Zaara, Aditya Chopra's Mohabbatein, and Sooraj Barjatya's storytelling. Musically, I have been inspired by Kumar Sanu and composers such as Nadeem–Shravan, Jatin–Lalit, and Anand–Milind. In recent years, South Indian cinema has greatly influenced me, particularly S.S. Rajamouli's Magadheera. I am also a huge admirer of M.M. Keeravani's music. These filmmakers and musicians have shaped my love for emotional storytelling, strong cultural roots, and memorable cinematic experiences.