Arushi Giridhar

Arushi Giridhar
Documentary Film

In today's world, people often refuse to admit when they don't know something. My work is a humbling opportunity to learn new things. In India, there is a strong expectation to follow one of two professions: engineer or doctor. As a child, I was confused about my path but I always enjoyed drawing and listening to stories. Through this interest, I realised I wanted to tell stories that people would immediately connect with. Initially, I didn’t know how to hold a camera, but with regular shooting, I improved at spotting stories, placing subjects creatively, chasing light, listening to sound, making quick decisions and understanding what truly goes into making a film. I aim to give my work a unique story. I have created three works: two films and an illustration piece. "Kamamma: To My Grandmother" is dedicated to my grandmother and explores how living alone can be both easy and difficult, showing the evolution of bonds. "Smile?" is a documentary about two single mothers from different societal sectors navigating motherhood with resilience and challenges. The third piece is a set of illustrations of regular people from Kochi, understanding their perspectives on communities. People often ask if filmmaking can be a viable career. I don’t know if I have an answer yet, but through my work, I aim to bring overlooked or mundane stories to life. My work is designed to be understood by both a 10-year-old and a 70-year-old. I love the freedom and independence involved in documentary filmmaking. My quest for originality and new content is unending, and I truly love this field as an art form, whether it's bringing a beautiful, untold story to life or creating something visually appealing that entertains.

How do stories show our ability to find strength and connect with others during tough times, and how can these stories help people understand and empathise better with others in society?

How do stories show our ability to find strength and connect with others during tough times, and how can these stories help people understand and empathise better with others in society?

Stories are powerful tools that illuminate our resilience and capacity to forge connections in challenging times. They showcase characters overcoming adversity, finding inner strength, and building meaningful relationships, resonating with our own experiences and emotions. Through storytelling, we develop empathy by stepping into diverse perspectives, understanding struggles, and appreciating the shared humanity that binds us. These narratives not only inspire but also educate, fostering a deeper understanding of others and encouraging collective empathy and support within society. They serve as catalysts for change, challenging stereotypes, promoting inclusivity, and empowering communities to navigate challenges together with strength and compassion.

Illustration

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A Film On My Grandmother

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What’s Behind That Smile?

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9535487738

arushigiri28@gmail.com

@arushi_giridhar