Stories don’t just entertain — they shape how we see the world, define identities, and influence cultural conversations. Whether through cinema, television, or journalism, storytelling has the power to challenge perceptions, evoke emotion, and ignite change. As digital platforms evolve, new mediums emerge, and audiences grow more discerning, the role of the storyteller has never been more vital.

In this panel discussion, filmmaker Hemanth Rao, director Vinay Shukla, and writer-filmmaker and moderator Suman Kumar explore the craft of storytelling, its impact on public discourse, and the evolving landscape of narrative creation in India and beyond.

Speakers:

Vinay Shukla

Filmmaker and producer, best known for While We Watched, a gripping documentary with journalist Ravish Kumar, on the state of modern media.

Hemanth Rao

Acclaimed Kannada director, renowned for Sapta Sagardaache Ello, a compelling film exploring the complexity of human relationships and personal growth.

Moderator:

Suman Kumar

Suman Kumar is an award-winning writer-director known for The Family Man, Farzi, Guns & Gulaabs, and Raghuthatha.