Meet India's Next-Gen Filmmakers

There’s just something very special about storytelling. How one single frame can hold so much emotion, how a simple narrative can shake things up, and how a film can make a moment last forever. In India, when people think of films, they think of big budgets, stars walking red carpets, and all that glitz. But there’s also another kind of filmmaker out there. The kind who don’t have a corporate machine backing them, no giant funding to make things easy, just pure passion that won’t let anything get in the way.

Among this new wave of Indian storytellers stands Stories That Matter. A team of filmmakers presenting the stories the way they should be communicated. No fancy sets, no big brand sponsors when they started, just a camera, an idea, and a bunch of people crazy enough to give it their all. Their journey? It’s all about pushing past limits, staying true to the story, and just loving cinema more than anything.

How It All Started

Like most great things, Stories That Matter wasn’t born in a boardroom—it started as a cause, an act of kindness that turned into a movement.

It all began during the pandemic," recalls Shashank Acharya, the creative force behind Stories That Matter. "We were trying to raise funds for a dog shelter, and the best way we thought we could spread awareness was through a documentary."

From that first film, their hunger for storytelling only grew. The small victories fuelled their ambition, and soon they found themselves capturing narratives beyond social causes—from small-scale restaurants fighting against odds to India’s mega kitchens that feed thousands daily.

"Initially, we didn't have the budget to travel beyond Karnataka," Shashank adds. "But slowly, through YouTube monetization, we made enough to expand to Goa and Maharashtra. And this year, we finally got to cover stories across India, thanks to the incredible support from Abharan Jewellers and Subhas Kamath, who believed in our vision. Extremely grateful!"

The Dream Team of Stories That Matter Behind the Camera

A film isn’t just about a director or a script—it’s a whole team effort, where every person involved makes sure the story comes to life in the best way possible. At Stories That Matter, storytelling is more than a project; it’s something that runs in their blood. Each member plays a role that turns a simple idea into something powerful on screen.

The team members behind the camera, making sure every shot looks just right, are Sanith Poojary, Shreesha Bhat, Anuj Kotian, Murali Abbemane, Shravan Acharya, Nithesh Mattu, Hemanth Kumar, Sujith Sk and Shashank Acharya. They don’t just capture visuals; they capture emotions. Then there are Sakshith Kotian, Shreyas Naik, Shreenidhi Bhat, Pramila Naik and Vignesh Amin, who bring it all together in the editing room, making sure the story flows exactly the way it should.

Murali Abbemane and Nithesh Mattu freeze time through their photography, ensuring every moment stays alive long after the scene is over. Post-production is where everything truly comes to life, and that’s where Shreyas Naik, Sakshith Kotian, Pramila Naik and Vignesh Amin come in. They ensure that every final detail is polished to perfection.

But a film is never just about the ones holding the cameras. It’s also about those working behind the scenes to make everything happen—Sachin Nayak, Sujith SK, and Ramith Sanil—each of them adding their own touch to the process, making sure nothing is left to chance.

This team is not just a group where people work together. It’s a family of creators who live and breathe filmmaking. They dream big, they work hard, and they are here to tell stories that matter.

What It Means to Be Independent

Ask any independent filmmaker, and they'll tell you—it's never easy. The challenges aren't just about securing funds, but also about carving a space in an industry dominated by big production houses.

"Sometimes, the budget of one corporate film could sum up our entire year's expenses," says Shashank with a laugh. "But the difference is, every film we shoot, we carry a lot of integrity in our hearts and a passion to give justice to the story. Sometimes we win, sometimes we lose… but mostly, the throne is always mine. Hahaha!"

And that’s the essence of independent cinema—the freedom to tell stories your way, with no compromises, no shortcuts, and a whole lot of heart.

Journey Beyond the Lens

Every great story isn’t just about what’s captured on camera but also about what happens beyond it—the struggles, the breakthroughs, and the little moments that make the journey worth it. For Stories That Matter, it has never been just about making films; it’s about telling stories that matter. Whether it was documenting the resilience of small-scale restaurant owners or exploring the massive operations behind India’s mega kitchen, every project has been a step forward. In addition to Stories That Matter, the team also operates under Raga Productions, a creative space dedicated to bringing diverse visual narratives to life.

The Road Ahead for Stories That Matter

Where do they go from here? The dream is simple yet profound—to become India's biggest storytellers.

"At Stories That Matter, we have always wanted to create films that matter. Seeing our dreams turn into reality, getting to do what we love with the people we love—it’s surreal. And I couldn’t have asked for a better team that shares the same passion. Beyond grateful."

With each passing day, each frame captured, and each story told, Stories That Matter is etching its name in India’s independent film movement. They are not just making films—they are making a difference in this field. And as for what’s next? God has always got our back, so we believe He’ll take care of the rest.

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