Tamil filmmaker GNR Kumaravelan was nominated for Filmfare award for the best Tamil director for his art film Haridas in 2013. The film, based on the story of an autistic child, received several positive reviews. Kumaravelan is the son of filmmaker GN Rangarajan. He made his directorial debut in 2009. Earlier he had worked as assistant director with Balanathan Benjamin Mahendran, popularly known as Balu Mahendra, from Sri Lanka, and actor-director Kamal Haasan.


What inspired you to become a director?

My father was a director and a producer. I grew up watching him have his story discussions and at the movie sets. It was very exciting and fascinating.

What role does an artist play in society?

Non-cinema people look up to an artist for inspiration and motivation. They see the artists in movies and strive to be like them. This is a powerful factor.

What inspired you to make Haridas?

My nephew is an autistic child. Seeing him and his parents bringing him up and give him a normal life inspired me to portray autism to the masses in a way that they would understand.

What is your next project?

My next project is titled Wagah starring Vikram Prabhu. The story revolves around the life of a BSF jawan.

What role should films play in society?

Filmmakers should make movies that matter to the public. It doesn’t have to be all serious. It can be commercial but have a strong social message.

Where do you see India 10 years from now?

A developed country in competition with the US, Russia, China and others.

What according to you are the major challenges India is facing?

India is facing a major challenge of finding its own identity.

How does the socio-political scenario impact your art?

The film Wagah, for example, is about a BSF jawan posted in Kashmir. So one can imagine the amount of problems I had to face during shooting and to bring this movie to the fore.

Which books are you reading at present? 

I am not much of a reader. I read whatever is required for my film. I enjoy watching movies though, a lot!

Your message to youngsters?

The youth shouldn’t go down the usual path of engineering, medicine, etc., and branch out and learn what they really love and stick to it.