Nagpur-born filmmaker Nikhil Shirbhate has struck gold with his short film Psycho Samjho To. The 10-minute masterpiece has not only won accolades in national and international film festivals but has also secured a spot among five Indian short films vying for the prestigious Oscars.
From Nagpur to Mumbai: Nikhil Shirbhate’s Journey
Nikhil Shirbhate, hailing from Nagpur, has been living in Mumbai for the past 12 years. After completing his 12th grade, he moved to the city of dreams with nothing but a passion for cinema. Despite having no formal technical education in filmmaking, Nikhil began his career by assisting Jasbir Bhatti, a renowned TV serial director.
Over time, he mastered the nuances of direction by working on various serials and films. His dedication earned him opportunities to work as an assistant director for four TV series and numerous web series. To date, Nikhil has contributed to the making of four films and over eight web series, apart from directing advertisements and short films independently.
The Making of Psycho Samjho To
Produced under the banner of Orange City Productions by Satish Mohod, Psycho Samjho To explores the intricate psychology of an artist who descends into madness due to failure but finds redemption through his art. The short film, starring Gaurishankar and others, was shot in the rugged terrains of the Kuhi taluka in Maharashtra.
Nikhil’s direction brilliantly captures the intense emotions and struggles of an artist, delving deep into their psyche and the transformative power of creativity.
Accolades and the Oscar Dream
Before its selection for the Oscars race, Psycho Samjho To garnered significant recognition. It won an award at a film festival in New Delhi and reached the finals of the World Indie Film Festival. These milestones have bolstered Nikhil’s confidence, and he hopes the film will make its mark on the Oscar jury.
A Visionary Filmmaker
Nikhil has not only succeeded in short films but also made a name for himself in web series. His Marathi web series, Shantaram Versus Many, is a testament to his storytelling prowess. With plans to take on more independent projects, Nikhil continues to push the boundaries of creativity.
A Glimpse Into the Future
The screening of Psycho Samjho To for the Oscar jury marks a pivotal moment for Nikhil Shirbhate and Indian short films. If selected, it would be a monumental achievement for Indian cinema on the global stage.
As Nikhil himself puts it, “The journey has just begun, and the best is yet to come.”
