Watch: Why Sekhar Kammula Takes Years to Make Each Film | Kuberaa Interview
Acclaimed filmmaker Sekhar Kammula, known for his heartfelt and socially conscious cinema, recently opened up in an interview with Ram Venkat Srikar about his deeply personal approach to filmmaking, particularly after wrapping up his latest bilingual project, Kuberaa.
Unlike directors who churn out projects annually, Kammula is known for the long gaps between his films, often three to four years. But as he clarified, this isn’t due to delays or lack of opportunities. “I wait for a story to come to me,” he said. “Something that feels honest and worth telling.”
A Thoughtful Filmmaking Process
For Kammula, each film is more than just a project—it’s a commitment to storytelling that has societal relevance. He only begins work once he’s convinced that the idea has value, both artistically and socially. Even then, he aims to capture 60-70% of his original vision on screen—a mark he considers a success in filmmaking.
Over time, his style has evolved. From lighthearted dramas like Anand to emotionally intense narratives like Love Story and Kuberaa, Kammula acknowledges that his storytelling has become more serious. “I used to believe in subtle messaging. But when you’re tackling themes like caste and class, subtlety isn’t always enough. You need impact.”
Kuberaa: Two Worlds, One Message
In Kuberaa, Kammula explores two contrasting realities: the world we live in every day, and the overlooked lives of beggars—those living on the margins of society. His goal isn’t to preach, but to spark awareness and reflection through storytelling.
For him, cinema is a medium of idealism and honesty, a way for a “common man” to send powerful messages. Box office numbers are secondary to impact. “A film should stay with you. It should make you feel something even after the credits roll,” he explained.
Watch the Full Interview: Sekhar Kammula x Ram Venkat Srikar
Experience Kammula’s insights first-hand as he breaks down his process, inspirations, and his vision for meaningful cinema.
