Meet Smahi Anand | Film Director

We had the good fortune of connecting with Smahi Anand and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Smahi, why did you pursue a creative career?
I pursued an artistic career in filmmaking because storytelling has always been a profound passion of mine. Film, as a medium, offers a unique way to explore and communicate complex emotions, experiences, and perspectives. I was drawn to the power of cinema to inspire, challenge, and connect people from diverse backgrounds.

My education at the New York Film Academy provided me with the technical skills and creative foundation to bring my visions to life. As a filmmaker, I am particularly committed to championing female-centric narratives. I believe in the importance of showcasing the strength, resilience, and complexity of women, and I strive to challenge stereotypes and promote inclusivity through my work.

There are so many issues women deal with that I can portray through film. By highlighting these challenges and triumphs, I aim to create a space for conversation, empathy, and progress. Whether it’s exploring themes of empowerment, resilience, or breaking down societal barriers, my goal is to use the power of film to shed light on the myriad of experiences women face and to inspire meaningful change.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
My journey as a filmmaker has been deeply influenced by a commitment to telling stories that matter, stories that challenge societal norms and inspire change. My upcoming short film “Silent Cycle” starring the famous Sunita Rajwar is a testament to this ethos. It’s more than just a film; it’s a poignant exploration of the cultural taboos surrounding menstruation that silence women’s experiences.

From a young age, I was struck by the stigma and shame associated with menstruation, something that should be natural and embraced. This experience, combined with my filmmaking education and passion for social justice, propelled me to create “Silent Cycle.” The film delves into the personal stories of women across generations, shedding light on how these taboos affect their lives and well-being.

I’m immensely proud of how “Silent Cycle” has resonated with audiences, sparking conversations and raising awareness about menstrual health and hygiene. Winning recognition and accolades for this film has been gratifying, as it affirms the power of storytelling to provoke thought and drive societal change.

Professionally, my path has been a challenging one, filled with uncertainties and obstacles. Breaking into the competitive world of filmmaking, especially as a woman advocating for female-centric narratives, wasn’t easy. It required persistence, resilience, and a steadfast belief in the importance of my work. Additionally, navigating a foreign land added another layer of complexity to my journey. Every opportunity that came my way, I seized with determination and a hunger to learn.

I’ve encountered setbacks and faced moments of doubt, but each challenge has ultimately strengthened my resolve and refined my craft. I’ve learned to view setbacks not as failures, but as opportunities for growth and learning. They’ve pushed me to innovate, to find new ways of telling stories that resonate deeply with audiences and provoke meaningful dialogue.

Being an outsider in the industry has also given me a unique perspective. It has fueled my drive to bring diverse voices to the forefront and challenge mainstream narratives. Through perseverance and a commitment to authenticity, I’ve been able to carve out a space for myself in the filmmaking world, advocating for stories that might otherwise go untold.

Moving forward, I carry with me the lessons of resilience and the belief that storytelling can be a catalyst for change. I want the world to know that my journey as a filmmaker is not just about personal success, but about using my platform to uplift others and contribute to a more inclusive and empathetic society.

Through “Silent Cycle” and my other works, I aim to convey a message of empowerment and inclusivity. I want the world to know that my filmmaking is driven by a desire to dismantle stereotypes, advocate for gender equality behind the camera, and inspire future generations of storytellers to embrace diverse perspectives.

Ultimately, I hope that my films, including “Silent Cycle,” contribute to a more compassionate and understanding world where every person’s experience is honored and respected. By continuing to tackle important societal issues through my art, I strive to foster empathy, provoke meaningful dialogue, and create lasting change.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If my best friend were visiting, I’d start with exploring LA’s iconic spots like Santa Monica Pier for some beach fun and maybe a ride on the Ferris wheel. We’d grab lunch at a cozy spot like Urth Caffé, then head to Griffith Observatory for stunning views of the city. Another day, we’d hit up Hollywood Walk of Fame and catch a show at the TCL Chinese Theatre. Dining-wise, I’d take them to places like Gjelina in Venice for dinner and drinks. For a taste of artsy LA, a visit to The Getty Museum or The Broad would be on the list. Mixing relaxation with adventure, we’d do a beach day in Malibu followed by dinner at Nobu Malibu. Downtown, Grand Central Market for lunch and catching a show at Walt Disney Concert Hall. Nature lovers? Griffith Park for hiking and sunset views of the Hollywood Sign.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love, and encouragement of others, I want to dedicate my shoutout to my parents. Their unwavering support and belief in my dreams have been instrumental in my journey. From a young age, they instilled in me the values of hard work, perseverance, and compassion. They have always encouraged me to follow my passion for filmmaking, even when the path was uncertain and challenging.

My parents’ sacrifices and dedication have provided me with the opportunities and resources needed to pursue my education and career. Their love and guidance have given me the strength to pursue my passion and overcome obstacles, and for that, I am forever grateful. Their faith in my abilities has been a constant source of motivation, inspiring me to push boundaries and strive for excellence in my work.

In addition to their emotional and financial support, my parents have been my biggest cheerleaders, celebrating every milestone and offering comfort during setbacks. Their belief in me has been a driving force behind my achievements, and I owe much of my success to their unwavering presence in my life.

So, to my parents, thank you for everything. Your support has been the foundation of my journey, and I am eternally grateful for your love and encouragement.

Website: https://www.smahianand.com

Instagram: @smahianand

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/smahianand

Youtube: @smahianand6097