Meet Harnish Ambaliya | Filmmaker, Producer & Cinematographer

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

Hi Harnish, how do you think about risk?
I see risk as an opportunity for growth and a necessary step to overcome obstacles. Growing up in the slums of Mumbai taught me that life is full of challenges, and breaking through those barriers often requires taking calculated risks. My journey into filmmaking has been defined by taking such risks. Whether it was leaving engineering to work with renowned singer Kailash Kher, or leaving a stable producing career in India to study cinematography at USC—a huge risk that many advised against—each step has been towards achieving my goals. I knew it was necessary to pursue my true passion, to push my boundaries, and refine my skills. This risk has led to incredible opportunities, including working as a Producer & DP on a student Emmy-nominated multi-cam sitcom thesis, “Failure to Launch,” and Cinematographer for “Dead pet Shark,” shot on 35mm film, that received a Panavision New Filmmaker grant. These decisions haven’t always been easy, and there have been moments of doubt, but I’ve learned that the biggest risk is not taking any risk at all. The rewards, both creatively and personally, have always proven worth it!

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.
I see my art as a reflection of my life experiences and a vehicle for sharing stories that resonate with me. Growing up in the slums of Mumbai gave me a unique perspective, one filled with resilience, community, and the constant drive to overcome adversity. These themes find their way into my filmmaking, whether I’m exploring them directly or subtly weaving them into the fabric of the narrative. Ironically, or perhaps fittingly, since I was born in the slums, my family discouraged me from watching films. They believed it would distract me from my studies. So, unlike many filmmakers, I haven’t consumed a vast library of films. This sometimes makes me wonder, especially when friends are discussing their favorite movies or cinematographers and I draw a blank. It’s a challenge I’ve had to overcome.

But what I have consumed is the world around me. My inspiration comes from the environment I grew up in – the dark, grunge aesthetic of the Mumbai Chawls. I believe this is why I’m drawn to the horror and thriller genres; I love the challenge of lighting for dark themes. On the other hand, my time with Kailash Kher opened my eyes to a completely different world. Traveling across India with him exposed me to the incredible diversity of the country – the different states, cultures, people, and landscapes. This experience broadened my horizons and gave me a deeper appreciation for the richness of human experience.

As a cinematographer, I’m particularly drawn to the power of visual storytelling. I love using light and shadow, composition and movement, to evoke emotions and create a truly immersive experience for the audience. I’m always experimenting and pushing myself to learn new techniques, because I believe the visual language of film is just as important as the story itself.

I’m incredibly proud of the work I’ve done at USC. Serving as the cinematographer (and producer) on the student Emmy-nominated multi-cam sitcom thesis, “Failure to Launch,” was a huge challenge but also incredibly rewarding. It pushed me to think creatively and technically in a way I hadn’t before. And the opportunity to shoot “Dead Pet Shark” on 35mm film, a project that received a Panavision New Filmmaker grant, was a dream come true. Working with film is a completely different experience, and it reinforced my love for the craft.

One of the most important lessons I’ve learned is the importance of resilience. Filmmaking is a tough business, and you’re going to face setbacks. But it’s crucial to keep going, to learn from your mistakes, and to never give up on your vision. I’ve also learned the power of collaboration. Filmmaking is a team effort, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to work with so many talented and passionate individuals. And finally, I’ve learned the importance of authenticity. It’s essential to stay true to your own voice and tell the stories that you’re passionate about. Film has the power to move people. I’ve seen it firsthand in my community – people folding their hands in front of the TV screen, watching gods on screen; people quitting smoking and drinking because of films; people shedding tears and changing their lives due to the power of film. I hope my art can evoke those same powerful emotions in audiences

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 LA, I’d want to give them a true taste of the city’s diverse character. We’d definitely hit some iconic spots like Griffith Observatory for those breathtaking city views and maybe even a hike to the Hollywood sign. But beyond the usual tourist trail, I’d take them to some of my favorite hidden gems. We’d explore the natural beauty of the San Gabriel Mountains with a hike to the stunning Canyon Trail Waterfall, a 40-foot cascade tucked away in the hills. Evenings would be for catching a Pacific sunset at El Matador State Beach, where the dramatic rock formations create a truly magical atmosphere. And of course, no LA experience is complete without a taco truck feast! We’d grab some authentic and delicious tacos from a local favorite like Taco Tamix near USC.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Absolutely. My journey into filmmaking wouldn’t have been possible without the incredible opportunities and mentorship I’ve received from two key people. First, Kailash Kher. He saw something in me, a raw potential, when I was just 18 and working at a PR firm. He took a chance on me, bringing me into his creative team at Kailasa Entertainment, allowing me to travel the world and film over 50 concerts. That experience was invaluable, teaching me not just filmmaking skills, but also essential professional skills, including how to interact with people, present myself, and navigate the professional world. Since I was raised in the slums, I didn’t have much exposure to these things. I’m eternally grateful for his early mentorship and the belief he showed in me.

Second, I want to give a huge shout-out to John Watson, a professor at USC. He interviewed me for the program, and I truly believe he’s the reason I’m here. He saw something in me and encouraged me to come to USC, saying the school was meant for people like me, even when I had doubts about taking such a big risk. His belief in me, even before I received the Hollywood Foreign Press Association scholarship, was instrumental in my decision to come. He’s been a fantastic mentor ever since, guiding me through my journey at USC and in Los Angeles. I’m incredibly thankful for his support and guidance.

Website: http://www.harnishambaliya.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/harnishambaliya/

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

Twitter: https://x.com/harnishambaliya

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/harnishambaliya/

Other: IMDb – https://www.imdb.com/name/nm11018704/