The Unsung Hero of Indie Cinema: Paresh Kamdar

In the world of Indian indie cinema, few names shine as brightly as Paresh Kamdar’s. Over the past two decades, his contributions as an editor and mentor have made a significant impact. If you’ve attended international film festivals, chances are you’ve seen his name in the credits—often as “Editor”, “Mentor”, or “Thanks To”. His remarkable work on films like Miss Lovely, Ghode Ko Jalebi Khilane Le Jaa Riya Hoon, and I’m Not the River Jhelum has not only impressed audiences but also helped several budding filmmakers find their voices.

At 67 years old, Kamdar collaborates mainly with first-time directors who often look up to him. His ability to elevate a good film to something truly extraordinary has earned him the title of being the “rhythm diviner” of indie cinema. He is lauded for his talent in distilling the essence of a film while allowing its unique story to shine, rather than imposing his own style on it.

One such filmmaker, Anuparna Roy, praised his mentorship on her film Songs of Forgotten Trees, which recently won the Orizzonti Award for Best Director at the Venice Film Festival. She calls him a “guide and a friend”, noting how despite facing health challenges, Kamdar was always there to support her and her team. “He understood the heart of my film,” she said. “His contributions extend beyond just my work; he has played a crucial part in the overall growth of indie cinema.”

Another filmmaker, Nidhi Saxena, who directed Secret of A Mountain Serpent, echoed this sentiment. She highlighted how Kamdar willingly dedicates his time to various projects without asking for financial compensation or recognition. “In an industry where true mentors are rare, he stands as a quiet, protective force over us,” she stated.

Kamdar’s editing style is transformative. For instance, he worked on Natesh Hegde’s Pedro, skilfully reducing its length while preserving its essence. Hegde remarked how Kamdar possesses a unique ability to maintain the film’s soul, which is essential for impactful storytelling. “He makes it feel like you are collaborating with a friend rather than an experienced editor,” he added.

Paresh Kamdar’s journey began at the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII), where he studied editing in the 1980s. He has worked on a range of documentaries and films, including the visual masterpieces of Kumar Shahani. Before returning to editing in 2012, he directed two films: the black comedy Tunnu Ki Tina and the psychological drama Khargosh.

Kamdar often teaches filmmaking at Whistling Woods International in Mumbai and spends time discussing his experiences and insights with aspiring filmmakers. Reflecting on his early years, he shared, “I grew up in a middle-class Gujarati family in Kolkata. I used to skip school to watch movies. My love for cinema was sparked by watching a variety of films, from B-grade pictures to the masterpieces of Satyajit Ray and Kumar Shahani.”

He began his career working on documentaries, which opened up new avenues of storytelling for him. His move to Mumbai was somewhat accidental, but it allowed him to work on diverse projects, including several acclaimed films that push the boundaries of Indian cinema.

Kamdar emphasizes the importance of genuine vision in filmmaking. He observes that many young filmmakers are incredibly talented but often lack the clarity of their artistic goals. “I bring a sense of form to the table,” he explains, noting that his editing philosophy focuses on understanding the filmmaker’s vision and aligning with it. “A film is like music; it has a rhythm and flow that must be respected. Silence and pauses can sometimes say more than words.”

As a pivotal figure in the landscape of independent cinema, Paresh Kamdar is a true treasure. His commitment to storytelling, mentoring, and emotional depth has helped to carve out a space for meaningful films in a crowded industry.

For all the aspiring filmmakers and cinephiles out there, Kamdar’s journey is a reminder that with dedication and the right mentorship, it is possible to create impactful and memorable cinema.

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