Even after becoming a successful painter, my primary interest was filmmaking, says Raj More

Raj More’s short film Khisa has been selected to compete in the 51st International Film Festival of India (IFFI) later this month. Speaking about the trajectory of his career, the filmmaker revealed that although he became a painter initially, his primary interest was filmmaking. 

When More took admission at the Sir JJ School of Art in Mumbai to become a painter, he was more interested in filmmaking. Along with the positive response to his paintings, what prompted More to start off as a painter was a letter of appreciation from thespian Ebrahim Alkazi. Also, he couldn’t gain admission at the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII) despite clearing the entrance exam. 

“At that time it was important to start a career, so I went into painting. But even after making a name as a painter, my urge to become a filmmaker wasn’t letting me be at peace. So I decided to fulfil my dream and this is how Khisa was born. I feel this short film is an extension of myself as a painter,” said More in a statement. 

Khisa review: Tragic story of loss of innocence reflects harsh reality of polarized times

Khisa is based on religious polarization in Indian society. “The film features the current social and political developments. Even today, things like religion and caste are given importance. We speak a lot about our history and we use the teachings of our great leaders for our selfish motives. The story of Khisa is based on this,” More said.

More has received support from well-known Marathi filmmaker Ravi Jadhav. “I have always been a fan of Raj’s paintings and when I came to know he was making a short film, I knew it will be something different. I saw the film and I like how it has captured even the tiny details. I had told Raj that this film would triumph at various film festivals and this is exactly what is happening,” he said. 

This year, the IFFI will be held between 16 and 24 January.