Filmmaker Suparn S Varma, who is known for his exceptional directing projects such as ‘The Family Man’, ‘Rana Naidu’, and ‘The Trial’, has added another name to his list with “Flames”.
The presenter and producer of the project shared that “Flames” was created with a quiet conviction to observe rather than judge. He explained that it is an attempt to give space and allow lived realities to speak in their own voice.
About the project
About the project, Suparn said in a statement, “Under Ravi Shankar Kaushik’s sensitive direction, the film doesn’t seek easy answers or dramatic resolutions; it simply stays with its characters and their circumstances with honesty and restraint.”
Vikram Kochhar plays the lead, he has previously worked in movies such as “Boong” and “No Land’s Man”. The drama also has a cast of many first-time actors from the villages of Jatauli and Lohari.
Backed by Suparn S Varma, Rashi Aggarwal, Suunil Jaiin, Aditya Joshi, and Shivam Gupta, with Jasdev Singh and Arpita Raghuwanshi as co-producers,
Recognition beyond cinema
Expressing his glee for the film he added, “Recognition from a platform like NHRIFF, which places human dignity, justice, and social truth at the centre of cinema, is especially meaningful for us. It reinforces our belief that deeply rooted, locally told stories can resonate far beyond their place of origin, and that independent cinema still has the power to foster empathy, reflection and conversation across borders.”
‘Flames’ director Ravi Shankar Kaushik said, “Receiving this award at a festival dedicated to human rights is deeply meaningful. Flames is a very personal film, and it’s encouraging to see it connect with audiences beyond India.”
The screening was followed by engaged discussions with viewers and delegates. The NHRIFF jury also praised the film for its nuanced approach to complex themes and its restrained, clear storytelling.