Creative Documentary Films That Make a Difference
For NGOs, CSR Projects, Brands & Artists
Documentary on Pashmina Shawl
On our way to Gulmarg for a family vacation, we passed by a small village and stumbled upon a group of incredible artists — third-generation Pashmina shawl weavers. It was a quick stop, maybe an hour at most, but just enough time to get a glimpse into their world. I’ve always been curious about how Pashmina is made, and hearing stories of how this craft has been passed down through generations pulled me in. That little detour turned into an impromptu documentary — one of my very first, and still one of the most special.
How Curiosity Made This Film, and She Made the Rest
When I first started making documentaries, it was just out of curiosity—pure beginner energy, no pressure, just following stories that sparked something in me. That’s exactly how this little film with Akanksha Nene came to life. I’d always been fascinated by people who make things—who pour their heart into something tangible—and I was curious about how that joy shows up in their everyday. So I called her up, asked if I could film her doing what she loves, and she said yes.
Akanksha is a college-going girl who runs a small, joyful jewelry business on the side. It started simply—she made a few pieces for herself, just for fun. The next thing she knew, friends were asking, orders were coming in, and her hobby grew into something real. What makes her work stand out is how intentional and soulful it is. She handpicks each gemstone, focusing on its unique color, texture, and story. Every piece she creates is bespoke—designed slowly, made thoughtfully, and meant to feel personal to the person wearing it.
The film came together with no heavy pre-production. I just sat with her, asked her a few questions, and let her voice guide the story. No script, no staging—just her, doing what she loves.
The Art of Doing What You Love
Why stories matter more when they’re real — just like Vikas’s.
Vikas Pureti doesn’t just take photos — he feels them.
In a world flooded with trends and presets, his work stands still — raw, soulful, and deeply intentional. What struck me about Vikas wasn’t just his skill behind the camera, but the quiet reverence he holds for the people and stories he photographs. He doesn’t chase perfection; he captures truth.
When I first met him, I knew this wasn’t someone who needed flashy marketing. What he needed was a film that felt as honest and grounded as his work — something that could reflect his journey, his values, and the kind of quiet magic that happens when you create from a place of love.
That’s why I made this film. To help the world see what I saw in him — a photographer whose work comes straight from the heart.
The Story I Know by Heart — and Had to Tell
Waking up at 4:30 AM every single day. Catching sleep in five stolen minutes, whenever — wherever — you can. Rolling in the mud, bruises that don't heal for weeks, blisters hidden under boots, bodies pushed far beyond comfort. The training life of a soldier is brutal — it breaks you down before it builds you up. It's a nightmare you willingly walk into, knowing that the pain, the sweat, and the struggle will one day turn into something bigger: pride, resilience, and unbreakable bonds with your fellow cadets.
As an ex-Army officer turned documentary filmmaker, I know exactly what it takes to show this side of a soldier’s story — raw, real, and deeply human. Meeting these young girls, each carrying fierce dreams of wearing the uniform and serving the nation, reminded me of why this journey matters. Their spirit is unshakable, and capturing their journey was not just a privilege — it was a homecoming.
Why Stories Matter
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There are artists, NGOs, and everyday heroes doing incredible work — but their stories remain untold.
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India is full of talent, passion, and purpose — but we often fail to project it out loud.
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Real stories from small towns, border villages, or local communities have the power to ignite hope across the country.
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Grit, creativity, and resilience deserve to be witnessed — not just archived.
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When you tell one story of courage, it inspires another. It creates a ripple effect.
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Passion is contagious. So is purpose. So is pride in who we are.
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The youth of India don’t need perfection — they need real role models from their own soil.
Because what isn’t seen, can’t inspire.
Let’s Not Let These Stories Fade Away
If you know someone whose story deserves to be told — an artist, a social worker, a young fighter, a quiet changemaker —connect with me.Let’s bring these stories to the world.Let’s show what India is truly made of.
Together, even the smallest story can make a difference.
What I Offer
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Short-form documentary films
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NGO project videos
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CSR storytelling films
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Artist and creative profile documentaries
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Awareness and outreach films for institutions
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Visual storytelling for funding or community campaigns
Who This Is For
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Nonprofits and grassroots organizations
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Corporate CSR teams
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Educational institutions and community programs
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Creative professionals and cultural workers
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Social impact campaigns and fundraisers
First-time Burqa for Filming in Uri
I wasn’t expecting to wear a burqa that day — but that’s how this journey began. I was on my way to Uri to film a small documentary on a local medical camp and youth development program. We spent the day meeting locals, listening to their stories, and documenting efforts to raise awareness around hygiene and sanitation. Alongside that, I got to witness powerful youth-led initiatives aimed at building skills and creating self-employment opportunities. Quietly inspiring and eye-opening in so many ways.
CSR Project in Baramulla ,Jammu & Kashmir
Medical Camp URI , Jammu & Kashmir
Mansi is a documentary family photographer whose work I’ve admired for a long time. I recently got to film her behind the scenes — no words were needed, honestly. I was just in awe of how she saw a simple moment between a mother and daughter so differently. Every image she created spoke for itself. I truly believe that showing your clients how you work has a far deeper impact than anything you could ever write.
Sony Thokchom: The Artist Who Paints What Words Can’t Say
I’m no art expert—just someone who knows when a painting moves me, makes my heart stir, and tells me, “I need this.” That’s how I discovered Sony Thokchom. During the last two years of my army service in the hills of Leimakhong—just an hour from Imphal—I fell deeply in love with Manipur. There’s something in the air there that makes you feel more creative, more alive. So when I came across Sony’s artwork—paintings inspired by the land I had come to cherish—it brought back every warm, fuzzy feeling. I bought a small piece for my living room, and every time I look at it, it reminds me of home. In a world overtaken by digital noise and AI-made images, handmade art like his stands still and speaks. It brings peace. It brings joy. And isn't that what we're all looking for?
Sony’s work is incredibly detailed—every brushstroke tells a story. He paints with a quiet intensity that blends traditional Manipuri culture with everyday emotions. You’ll see intricate shawl patterns, local flora and fauna, freckles, tanakha-painted cheeks, and strong, emotive eyes—all woven into portraits that feel both intimate and universal. One of his pieces, “I’m Still Beautiful and Strong,” shows a breast cancer survivor holding dandelions—grace, pain, and strength in one frame. His art doesn’t just reflect beauty; it challenges stereotypes and brings Northeast Indian stories into the light with honesty and pride.
The more I looked at his work, the more curious I became. How does he do this? What drives someone to create with such devotion? So in 2023, I made Part 1 of a documentary film about him—just Sony and me having a simple, candid conversation. No script. No elaborate production. Just a quiet exploration of his thoughts, dreams, and process. But a major part of his story still lives in Manipur—and that’s where I hope to return to film Part 2.
Meeting Sony, spending time with him, and witnessing his art come to life—it wasn’t just inspiring. It felt like coming full circle. Like returning home, through someone else’s brush.
COMING SOOON
They Deserve More: What This Special School Taught Me
Here’s a refined version of your paragraph, weaving in context from Indrani Balan’s CSR initiative at the Dagger Parivaar School in Baramulla:
When you witness an organization genuinely making a difference in the world, it sparks a feeling inside you: “This needs to be shared—it deserves more funding, more love, more care so it can truly flourish.” That’s exactly what struck me when I visited the Dagger Parivaar School in Baramulla, a special-needs institution supported by the Indrani Balan Foundation in partnership with the Indian Army . As I spent time there, I was deeply moved by the genuine affection and warmth the children shared with me.
One small moment stayed with me: the kids hate flash photography. When a photographer used a bright flash and startled them, it upset me—not out of judgment, but with concern. I gently explained how to shoot without flash to capture their joy and spirit, and saved many more smiles. The teachers, too, pour their hearts into the work, with customized lessons, supportive therapies, and tireless devotion—all aimed at empowering these children, some of whom have already transitioned into mainstream schools .
Where Grit Meets Glory: The Spirit of Kashmir’s Youth
The first time I met Musharaf Qayoom, he was just 18—but already leading and training a group of 20 younger athletes, aged between 12 and 18. I watched them move with fierce determination, each drill done with fire in their eyes, as if they were racing their own limits. It wasn’t just training—it was hunger. A quiet, collective grit to win, to bring home medals, to make their small village in Baramulla proud.
In Kashmir, where the youth often struggle with limited opportunities, sports have become a lifeline—something real to strive toward. And in just a few hours with these kids, I felt something shift inside me. Their discipline, passion, and unity were contagious. It was more than inspiring—it lifted my own spirit.
Musharaf himself is an 18-time gold medalist, and he's not just chasing his dreams—he's creating a ripple effect, guiding the next generation of athletes with heart and humility. And the most powerful moment? Watching girls in hijab step into the ring, throwing powerful punches with unwavering focus. It wasn’t just impressive—it was revolutionary.
This is not just a story of sports. It’s a story of hope, pride, and what happens when youth are given a reason to believe in themselves.
A small filmmaker’s note:
You may notice the audio isn’t perfect. I made the rookie mistake of recording the interview in a large, empty room that echoed more than I expected. Due to on-ground restrictions and time limits, I did what I could. But I hope you’ll look past that imperfection and focus on the spirit of this story—the raw passion, the resilience, the spark these young athletes carry. Sometimes, it’s okay to let go of perfect when the emotion is real.
Every Story Deserves to Be Told
In a world overflowing with visuals, it’s easy to overlook the importance of storytelling that connects with people. Potential goes unnoticed when emotions aren’t captured. At Creative Films, we help you articulate that unique narrative through documentary-style storytelling and engaging visuals that showcase the heart of your brand. We ensure your story speaks loudly and resonates with those who experience it, allowing you to connect with audiences on a deeper level and make an enduring impact.
We get what it means to feel unseen.
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