Ram Madhvani and Mahaveer Jain Explore Cinema’s Impact on Nation Building at IFFI 2025
National Award-winning filmmaker Ram Madhvani and esteemed producer Mahaveer Jain engaged in a thought-provoking discussion at the 56th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in Goa. Their conversation, moderated by the young filmmaker Divyansh Jain, centered on the theme “The Power and Impact of Our Stories on Nation Building.” The session highlighted the significance of storytelling in shaping cultural identity and the responsibilities of filmmakers in conveying meaningful narratives.
Exploring the Essence of Storytelling
During the session, Madhvani and Jain delved into the profound role of storytelling in Indian culture. Madhvani emphasized that India has a rich tradition of narratives, with epics like the Ramayana and Mahabharata serving as moral guides and reflections of societal values. He stated, “As creators today, we inherit that legacy. Our responsibility is to craft stories that not only entertain but also carry forward the values, questions, and memories that define us.” This perspective underscores the idea that storytelling is not merely an art form but a sacred act that helps individuals understand themselves and their heritage.
Jain echoed these sentiments, stressing the importance of sharing India’s ancient wisdom through cinema. He remarked, “We have solutions for everything in the ancient wisdom that our own sages have given us.” Jain urged filmmakers to propagate this wisdom globally, highlighting the potential of cinema as a medium for cultural exchange and enlightenment.
The Role of Emotion in Filmmaking
Madhvani also shared insights into his filmmaking philosophy, particularly his focus on evoking deep emotions in audiences. He expressed a keen interest in the concept of the tragic hero, stating, “We have forgotten the tragic hero.” He lamented the absence of such characters in contemporary cinema, noting that figures like Meena Kumari and Dilip Kumar have left a lasting impact on viewers. Madhvani aims to create films that resonate emotionally, seeking to provide catharsis through storytelling. “If I can use the work that I am putting out there to try and see how you can achieve catharsis, that is what I would like to do,” he explained.
He also referenced his aspiration to create another film akin to “Guide,” which he described as one of the greatest spiritual films in Indian cinema. This ambition reflects his commitment to producing meaningful content that not only entertains but also enriches the audience’s emotional experience.
The Significance of IFFI
The International Film Festival of India, established in 1952, stands as a pivotal platform for filmmakers and storytellers. It is the only South Asian film festival accredited by the International Federation of Film Producers’ Associations (FIAPF) in the Competitive Feature Films category. Each year, IFFI showcases landmark cinema from around the world, fostering dialogue and collaboration among industry professionals.
The festival serves as a vital space for exploring cinema’s influence on culture, identity, and national narratives. By bringing together diverse voices, IFFI encourages discussions that highlight the responsibilities of filmmakers in shaping societal values through their work. The engaging session featuring Madhvani and Jain exemplifies the festival’s commitment to promoting meaningful conversations about the power of storytelling in nation-building.
As IFFI continues to celebrate the art of cinema, it remains an essential venue for filmmakers to connect, share ideas, and inspire future generations through the stories they tell.
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