Payal Kapadia echoes Anurag Kashyap’s concerns over lack of support for Indie films: “Structural changes needed”

Acclaimed filmmaker Payal Kapadia, whose latest project All We Imagine As Light hits Indian theaters on November 22, has finally opened up about how independent cinema has been bearing with the challenges in India.
According to Hinduism Times, Kapadia spoke of the frustration displayed by Anurag Kashyap in his points regarding the criticism about the lack of institutional support for indie films.Payal Kapadia touched upon Kashyap’s frustration where she referred to the painful reality of not only making an independent film but also going to the audiences appropriately.
“I don’t know what can bring about change,” she admitted, pointing toward the need for structural reforms within the film industry. “We need grants, support systems, and opportunities for independent filmmakers. It’s not just about making the film, the bigger challenge is getting it distributed.” She was thankful for a popular company’s involvement in distributing her film, adding this was a huge step for indie cinema reaching wider audiences.
This was prompted when Anurag Kashyap, recently speaking with PTI, spoke on how Indian support has failed to be given to cinematic work that is acclaimed all over the world.
He was referring to Kapadia’s recent win at Cannes 2024. Kashyap said, “India didn’t have any moment at Cannes. Payal Kapadia’s film was funded by the French, and the rebate promised by India was never given.”
All We Imagine As Light just drew a packed house for its premiere at the MAMI Mumbai Film Festival and became the first Indian film ever to win the Grand Prix at the Cannes Film Festival in May.
The story of this drama film revolves around Prabha, a nurse in Mumbai, whose life, incredibly, turns around when a rice cooker from her estranged husband arrives. The movie will be released on November 22.