RIYA AGARWAL Cinematic Journey Through the Sensational World of Filmmaking

In the vibrant landscape of contemporary filmmaking, only a few artists stand out quite like Riya Agarwal.

- Seeja Prabhu

A multifaceted talent-writer, director, producer, and sound mixer-Riya's journey from Kolkata to the global film scene is a powerful story of creativity, resilience, and a deep connection to her Goan roots.

Early Life: Seeds of Creativity

Born and raised in Kolkata, Riya was drawn to the visual arts early on. Her childhood was filled with creative pursuits, but a significant shift occurred when she moved to a boarding school in Bangalore. "I became more reserved there, unable to explore, but eventually found my way out through film," she recalls, describing her struggle to find a creative outlet. This internal conflict eventually sparked her passion for filmmaking-by being a rebellious soul against the confines of her environment.

A pivotal moment in her artistic awakening came when she watched Fight Club, which ignited her desire to explore storytelling through film. "It was therapeutic for me," she reflects, prompting her to delve into art and film therapy as well.

Building an Individualistic Film Career

Riya's professional journey took off when she ventured into the bustling world of Bollywood. She worked alongside renowned filmmakers like Anurag Kashyap, who, galvanized by her resilient spirit presented her with the opportunity to apprentice alongside him in Mumbai, on Bombay Velvet and as an Assistant Director on Raman Raghav 2.0-which received acclaim at the Cannes Directors' Fortnight 2016-she honed her skills in a challenging industry. These experiences enriched her skills and shaped her artistic vision.