Mita Vasisht Unveils Mani Kaul's Cinematic Soul

Mita Vasisht shares insights into her 12-year project, a biopic dedicated to the cinematic vision of Mani Kaul. The film meticulously traces Kaul's artistic journey, from his early life experiences in expansive landscapes to the creation of groundbreaking films like Siddheshwari. Vasisht emphasizes how foundational texts like Natyashastra, alongside Kaul's childhood immersion in nature, profoundly shaped his approach to filmmaking and performance.

The biopic explores the interconnectedness of art forms, with Vasisht explaining that Kaul viewed cinematic frames as architectural spaces. This perspective, rooted in ancient Indian performing arts, encourages a holistic and expansive approach to visual storytelling. Vasisht contrasts this with contemporary trends, suggesting Kaul's cinema offers a sanctuary of depth and wholeness amidst a digitally fragmented world.

Vasisht further discusses Kaul's nuanced portrayal of women, moving beyond objectification to explore inner worlds and connected consciousness. The 12-year gestation of the film tested Vasisht's own artistic learnings, underscoring her belief that cinema emerges through surrender and a deep connection to universal wisdom, making Kaul's timeless work relevant for all generations.