EntertainmentPosted at: Dec 5 2025 9:32PM


Today, OTT and YouTube offer opportunities we never had: Madhur Bhandarkar

Pune, Dec 5 (UNI) Averring that filmmaking reflects the goings-on in society, eminent director Madhur Bhandarkar on Friday said he has always derived his inspiration from real-life experiences.
"Filmmaking is the reflection of what society goes through. I am always inspired by subjects that emerge from real experiences. Some people feel I get too close to reality, but that is the journey I’ve chosen," said Bhandarkar here.
Symbiosis International (Deemed University), the Faculty of Media and Communication, hosted the Second Edition of the Symbiosis Film Festival (SFF) on December 5 and 6 at Symbiosis International University (SIU) Campus, Lavale, and Symbiosis Ishanya Bhavan, Viman Nagar, Pune respectively.
Bhandakar, who inaugurated the Symbiosis Film Festival in the presence of S.B. Mujumdar, Chancellor, Symbiosis International University, discussed during an interactive session with the students how his upcoming film The Wives explores the emotional landscape of families in the glamour industry.
“The world is the same, but today everything is on steroids — driven by social media, algorithms, likes and comments. I’ve addressed how narratives are shaped in this new ecosystem," he said.
He also spoke about the importance of research in his cinema, revealing how deeply he immerses himself in the worlds he portrays.
"Whether it was bar dancers for Chandni Bar, undertrials for Jail, or backstage fashion shows for Fashion, I met real people. Research is the backbone of every film I make. The characters must feel authentic because they come from real lives," he explained.
"Today, OTT and YouTube offer opportunities we never had. Your voice can reach the world. But whatever you make, stick to your conviction. Filmmaking is money-driven, but storytelling is belief-driven,” he advised.
Touching upon his lifelong commitment to portraying marginalised communities, Bhandarkar added, It is essential to show the struggles of those whose voices go unheard — from migrant workers to sex workers to bar dancers. "If a film can make audiences feel, question, or change, that is true cinema," he signed off. UNI SP SSP
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Tags: #Today# OTT and YouTube offer opportunities we never had: Madhur Bhandarkar
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