Ram Madhvani’s The Waking of a Nation Premieres on SonyLIV on 7 March 2025

Ram Madhvani’s The Waking of a Nation: By creating a balance between Indian and Western influences, filmmaker Ram Madhvani is today known as an amazing filmmaker. Talking about doing work differently from others, Ram Madhvani said, "I am connected to my roots, but have also been influenced by some international ideologies." Let's know what he says about his film and the showmaking:

From 'Neerja' to 'Arya', your work has been loved by the audience. Let's start from the beginning. I have heard that your love for films started from school in Panchgani?

Absolutely. Films were shown on Saturdays at St. Peters. It was a magical feeling. Imagine, a steel box being brought, reels come out of it, and suddenly, we are in a whole different world. That's where my passion for the creative world started. I think, even back then, if you asked my classmates what they wanted to be, I would be the only one who would say, "Filmmaker". I don't know how I knew what I wanted to do, but I knew it.

So, from school screenings... what happened next?

Well, my passion kept growing. I used to visit Barshi near Solapur during vacations. It's a small town, but it had four cinemas. And those theatres were named after the Mangeshkar sisters. I used to watch a lot of movies there. It didn't matter if the cinema hall was full or empty, I would always book a seat for myself. Mango juice, popcorn, and a movie. Bliss! I could watch the same film multiple times.

Ohhh, that's the dedication. Did any film stand out?

Yes, definitely. I watched 'Yaadon Ki Baaraat' about twelve times and 'Jugnu' nine times. That's where I learnt storytelling, and how to bring a story to life on screen. In a way, Barshi was my film school.

So, Barshi fostered your love for Indian cinema. But what about international influences?

That came a little later. In college, I saw cinema from around the world through places like Max Mueller Bhavan and the British Council. I used to watch Yash Chopra films along with Fellini and Shyam Benegal. It was a wonderful mix, a beautiful blend.

You have talked about the balance of Indian and Western styles in your films. Can you elaborate a little more on that?

I think that balance is what sets my work apart. I am very strongly connected to my Indian roots. To our way of telling stories, to our emotions. However, I am also influenced by international filmmaking and its different techniques and approaches. I call it the 'global Indian' approach. It's true that I want to stay true to where I come from, but I am also always open to learning from everywhere.

So, you are saying that you are a filmmaker who has both an Indian and international perspective?

Absolutely. I think that's why my films can look a little different. It's not a conscious effort, it's just who I am. It's in my blood, this mix of influences.

And this bi-ethnic mix of yours has led to some incredible work. 'Neerja' and 'Aarya' were very successful. What's next?

I have a new series coming up called 'The Waking of a Nation.' It will be out on SonyLIV on March 7, 2025. I am excited about it.

What can you tell us about it?

(Smiles) Not right now. You have to see it. But it is a story I am passionate about. It is another step in my work journey, from that kid watching films in Panchgani to telling stories on screen.

Looking back, what advice would you give to aspiring filmmakers?

Be true to yourself. Search your voice. Don't be afraid to experiment, and mix different genres. And most importantly be dedicated and true to your work."

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