Renowned Film Director Kabir Khan Reflects on His Journey, Creative Challenges, and the Future of Storytelling.
In an exclusive interview with G'day India during the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM) 2024, acclaimed director Kabir Khan delves into his journey as a filmmaker who bridges the gap between historical context and compelling narratives. Known for his ability to intertwine real-life events with human stories, Khan shares insights into his creative process, the challenges he has faced, and his vision for the future of cinema in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.
Filmmaking Style  
Kabir Khan, known for blending historical events with compelling narratives, draws inspiration from his background as a documentary filmmaker. “When I watched mainstream cinema, I often felt it lacked social, political, or historical context,” Khan shares. "I wanted to tell stories that included these elements, creating films that I enjoy watching." He admires filmmakers like Mani Ratnam, who skilfully blend larger-than-life contexts with personal stories, a style that has heavily influenced Khan’s own work.
Facing Challenges and Learning from Kabul Express
Reflecting on the challenges he faced during his career, Khan cites his debut film Kabul Express as a significant learning experience. “We were shooting in Afghanistan when the Taliban resurgence began, and we received death threats. It was a baptism by fire, but the support from the Afghan people helped us complete the film,” he recalls. This experience taught him resilience and adaptability—qualities that have been vital throughout his career.
The Influence of Documentary Filmmaking on Narrative Films
Khan attributes much of his success in narrative filmmaking to his documentary background, which trained him to be ready for anything. "Documentaries teach you to adapt when things don't go as planned," he says. “This mindset helps me handle unexpected changes, especially when shooting outdoors where many factors are beyond control. My years in documentaries have been instrumental in shaping my approach to filmmaking.”
Embracing the Future of Cinema with Digital and AI
As the film industry evolves with digital streaming platforms and AI, Khan views these changes as opportunities rather than threats. "Cinema is always reflecting the times, and we must adapt to new technologies and viewing habits," he explains. He sees the advent of OTT platforms as a way to expand storytelling opportunities rather than a replacement for traditional theatres. “More platforms mean more avenues for storytellers. The more, the merrier.”
Experiencing Melbourne Through Setara
Khan recently worked in Melbourne on the short film ‘Setara’ an anthology film 'My Melbourne',
a new format for him as a narrative filmmaker. "It was a beautiful experience working with an international crew and Afghan actors now based in Melbourne," he says. He also collaborated with Aryana Sayeed, a renowned Afghan singer, adding a layer of authenticity to the project. Khan appreciated the inclusivity and collaborative nature of the production, which deepened his connection to Melbourne’s vibrant culture.
A Special Connection with Melbourne
Khan has a fondness for Melbourne, thanks to the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM). "Thanks to IFFM, Melbourne feels like a second home," he says. Through his recent work on Setara, he got to explore the city more deeply, appreciating its beauty and culture. "There’s something invigorating about Melbourne’s atmosphere. Every visit leaves me feeling refreshed."
What Keeps Him Going
Khan’s motivation lies in his passion for stories. “The hunger for storytelling keeps me going,” he shares. "It's a long process, taking about a year or more to make a film, so being passionate about the story is essential to see it through."
With projects in the pipeline and his dedication to exploring new stories, Kabir Khan continues to inspire as a filmmaker who merges history, humanity, and compelling narratives.
Advice for Aspiring Filmmakers
For emerging filmmakers, Khan advises staying true to one's artistic vision. “Make something that reflects what you truly believe in,” he says. “Don’t try to replicate someone else's success. Your unique voice is what will set you apart.” He emphasizes that predicting commercial success is nearly impossible, so filmmakers should focus on passion and authenticity rather than chasing trends. "We are artists, not traders. Make films with conviction, and they will find their place."
- Tonee Sethi