Bringing untold stories to the forefront at the global platform, the Non-feature film category in the 55th IFFI opened with the Ladakhi-language Film, Ghar Jaisa Kuch, on Thursday (21 Nov) at the festival
Ghar Jaisa Kuch is a short film directed by an independent director, Harsh Sangani.
This short film has managed to capture attention from all corners as a first film from Ladakh to open the Non-Fiction category in IFFI
The much-anticipated film Ghar Jaisa Kuch – Something Like Home explores the delicate balance between holding on to inherited traditions and chasing future dreams.
Set against the breathtaking backdrop of Ladakh, the film weaves a poignant narrative where the spirits of the protagonist's parents play a pivotal role, adding depth and emotional complexity.
Through its captivating storytelling, the film immerses viewers in the rich language, traditions, and essence of Ladakh, presenting a visually stunning and emotionally resonant portrayal of the region.
I always had the story within me, but it never materialized into reality until now. I resonated with the main character’s struggles of trying to find a home that once existed; I also have experienced similar situations in my own life.Harsh Sangani - Director
Sangani emphasized that the film reflects universal struggles—leaving the comfort of one’s hometown for the uncertainties of a new city, only to be consumed by nostalgia for the warmth of home.
The title, Ghar Jaisa Kuch, was thoughtfully chosen to evoke a sense of yearning.
“We wanted to make the audience feel the longing for a place that once held comfort and warmth for them,” Sangani said.
The film’s Director of Photography, Kabir Naik, shared his experiences of working in Ladakh’s rugged yet picturesque landscape
As a cinematographer, shooting in such places like Ladakh was a dream. However, it also gets quite overwhelming as one always has to try extra hard to make the characters stand out in such a scenic place.Kabir Naik - Director of Photography
The film’s stunning visuals aim to bridge the local essence of Ladakh with universal emotions, creating a lasting impact on audiences.
Sangani expressed hope that the film would resonate with audiences across Ladakh and the rest of India.
“As we just finished making the film before entering it into the selection for IFFI, we didn’t get the chance to show the film to viewers yet. But I hope to find an audience who will identify and resonate with the movie,” he said.
This year, 262 films vied for a spot in this category, with only 20 making the cut.
The non-feature film section at IFFI is a platform for emerging and established filmmakers to showcase their talent through documentaries and short films.
The inclusion of Ghar Jaisa Kuch underscores the growing prominence of regional cinema in India, particularly from underrepresented areas like Ladakh.
As the film makes its way to audiences, it stands as a testament to the power of storytelling in connecting people through shared emotions and cultural heritage.