Indian Filmmakers Launch Collective to Support Independent Cinema
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More than 120 Indian filmmakers and producers have formed the Independent Filmmakers Assn. of India (IFAI), a not-for-profit collective. The group aims to improve theatrical access, distribution, and streaming visibility for the country's independent film sector. It made its formal public debut at the Cannes Film Festival.
Facts First
- More than 120 Indian filmmakers and producers have formed the Independent Filmmakers Assn. of India (IFAI), a not-for-profit collective.
- The IFAI aims to improve theatrical access, distribution, and streaming visibility for India's independent film sector.
- The association made its formal public debut at the Cannes Film Festival, represented by actor-producer Anshuman Jha and filmmaker Devashish Makhija.
- The founding board includes prominent directors and producers such as Alankrita Shrivastava, Kanu Behl, and Sudhanshu Saria.
- The IFAI is open to directors and producers at all career stages and plans to run workshops, mentorship programs, and community initiatives.
What Happened
More than 120 Indian filmmakers and producers have established the Independent Filmmakers Assn. of India (IFAI), a not-for-profit collective. The IFAI made its formal public debut at the Cannes Film Festival. The formation was partly prompted by the theatrical struggles of director Kanu Behl's film 'Agra' in late 2025. The founding board includes directors Aarti Kadav, Alankrita Shrivastava, Anshuman Jha, Bauddhayan Mukherji, Harsh Agarwal, Honey Trehan, Kanu Behl, Parth Saurabh, Ruchi Narain, and Sudhanshu Saria. The wider membership includes Nandita Das and Abhay Deol.
Why this Matters to You
If you are a fan of diverse, non-mainstream cinema, this development could lead to a wider variety of Indian films reaching theaters and streaming platforms. The IFAI's focus on improving distribution and visibility may make it easier for you to discover and access independent films that might otherwise struggle for a release. For aspiring filmmakers, the association's planned workshops and mentorship programs could provide valuable pathways into the industry.
What's Next
The IFAI will operate through groups addressing advocacy, exhibition, distribution, public policy, mentorship, and audience development. It plans to run workshops, mentorship programs, and community initiatives for emerging talent. The collective's efforts may begin to shape new pathways for independent films to reach audiences in the coming months and years.