Here are some real, hard-hitting ones I learned over the last 18 months. This is part 1 as I am midway in the production of my next anthology series. I am sure, there will be more lessons by the end of that.
I built a production from scratch and functioned as everything, from CEO to spot boy. These aren’t generic lessons or AI generated prompts. They were tested on the ground, brutal at times, and deeply fulfilling in the end.
These lessons apply across industries because they’re rooted in risk taking, leadership, people management, distribution and intent.
1. You don’t have to follow the same path (High Risk)
Most creators first build an audience and then create IP. I chose the opposite, built my own IP first and invited audiences to connect with my vision from day one.
Outcome: Slow traction, but strong differentiation. Leading publications featured the work as having a cult following.
2. Move beyond traditional distribution (Medium Risk)
Instead of relying only on algorithms, I took the films to people, live screenings across Indian cities and film festivals. Screening was done in Pune, Chennai, Kolkata & Delhi. Half a dozen screenings planned across Indian Cities & Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia in 2026.
Outcome: Awards, credibility, word-of-mouth, and genuine audience connection.
Watch my award Winning Indie Film : Bhav Bhagwan Che
3. Safety of women colleagues is non-negotiable
It was important to create a workspace that was safe, respectful, and conducive to growth; both personal and professional. Given the early-stage nature of the production, work hours were often unpredictable. Yet, from actresses to costume and makeup teams, not a single incident was reported and I take pride in that. From Day 1, I was clear and vocal: If any incident was brought to me, I would immediately remove the person responsible and if needed, shut down the production, even at a financial loss.
Outcome: 100% positive feedback and repeat collaborations from women colleagues.
4. Equal opportunity environment
If you performed, you were rewarded, irrespective of gender or position. The vision always came first.
Outcome: Organic interest from theatre artists and the indie film community to collaborate.
5. Firing is necessary. Have hard conversations
Creative differences are fine. Poor attitude isn’t.
Outcome: Faster execution with aligned, committed teams.
6. Always plan for Black Swan events
Actors dropped out, locations collapsed, costs escalated. I even dipped into emergency savings.
Outcome: The biggest financial lesson – stay in the game long enough to turn odds in your favor.
7. Choose your industry with clarity
Films aren’t about margins or luck for me. They’re about love for the craft. I didn’t enter this space for fame, glamour, or money. I did it because I am hopelessly, unapologetically, madly, and passionately in love with my art. I’ve been doing this since childhood and I will continue until my last breath.
Lesson: Know your why before committing to anything.
This journey is meant to be enjoyed. If the process is right, the numbers follow.
