Barkha Naik graduated in Political Science from Ferguson College, Pune, and later completed her master’s in Filmmaking at the Film and TV School of the Academy of Performing Arts in Prague. She has appeared in a few Konkani films and has worked on short films, assisting experienced filmmakers on projects in Goa.
Initially drawn to political science, Barkha realized by graduation that it was not the path she wished to pursue. “After completing my degree at Ferguson College, I decided to take a break. During this time, I worked on a Konkani film, and later assisted documentary filmmaker Anand Patwardhan in Goa,” she shared. Barkha’s involvement led to an invitation from Patwardhan to assist him in Mumbai. “A few months later, when his assistant left, he invited me to join him in Mumbai. This experience was immensely enriching; I was involved in various tasks, from sound recording to research and filming, as well as handling equipment,” she recalled.
After this transformative experience, Barkha chose to attend a filmmaking institute. “The hard work was rewarding and solidified my passion for filmmaking. I applied to both FTII in Pune and FAMU in Prague. I was particularly interested in a long course of at least three years, and Prague offered affordable living and tuition, which influenced my decision,” she explained.
Barkha found her time at FAMU life-changing. “I met professors who profoundly impacted my approach to filmmaking and connected with peers from diverse backgrounds. Europe’s cold weather and cultural attitudes motivated me to improve constantly,” she said, reflecting on her significant journey. Her experiences in Prague gave her access to good equipment and a disciplined approach to filmmaking, contrasting with her perceptions of the industry in India. “In Prague, every detail, from storyboarding to prop placement, was meticulously planned on paper, making shoots efficient,” she noted.
Upon returning to Goa, Barkha worked on her graduation film, which COVID-19 delayed. Currently, she is involved in a Netflix project and plans to seek work in Mumbai after her graduation in September. “I aspire to make Konkani films and contribute to the Goan film industry, but lack of experience and financial constraints hold me back. I intend to gain experience in Mumbai, assist directors I admire, work in ad films, and eventually return to Goa to make Konkani films,” she stated.
Barkha views Goa as a small but growing film industry. “While we don’t have a vast array of content, we’ve produced noteworthy films that have succeeded at festivals. The rise of OTT platforms and the opening of the international market to local content present new opportunities for Konkani films,” she explained.
Highlighting a new wave of talent in Goa, Barkha mentioned filmmakers who have gained international training, like Deep Sawant, Mukund Shinkre, Heramb Kirtani, Akshay Parvatkar, Sainath Uskaikar, and Suyash Kamat. “These emerging filmmakers and technicians are reshaping the industry in Goa,” she said.
Barkha has a passion for both acting and directing. “If I admire the director and the character is compelling, I would love to act in a film. However, I find the control and creative power of directing even more fulfilling,” she added.
Participating in the Take 10 project will allow Barkha to connect with established industry professionals through workshops. “This will help me build a solid portfolio. Although I’ll still be new, my comprehensive training and the Take 10 project will enhance my prospects,” she explained.
Barkha believes in the abundant talent in Goa and the importance of collaboration among filmmakers. “When applying for the Take 10 project, my friends and I, all trained in filmmaking, decided to work together. This community support is crucial; only by working together can we grow as individuals and as an industry.”
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