The 55th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) spotlighted regional storytelling with the Ladakhi-language film Ghar Jaisa Kuch opening the Non-Feature Film category. Directed by independent filmmaker Harsh Sangani, the film explores the tension between tradition and ambition through a poignant narrative shaped by the spirits of the protagonist’s parents.
Set against the backdrop of Ladakh, the film beautifully portrays the protagonist’s longing for a lost home while navigating the challenges of pursuing dreams in an unfamiliar city. “I resonated deeply with the main character’s struggles, as they mirrored my own experiences,” said Sangani at a press conference held by PIB.
Cinematographer Kabir Naik, who hails from Goa, described the experience of capturing Ladakh’s breathtaking landscapes while ensuring the characters remained central to the story. “Shooting in Ladakh was a dream, but balancing its scenic beauty with the narrative’s emotional core was a unique challenge,” he said.
Selected from 262 entries, Ghar Jaisa Kuch is one of 20 films featured in this year’s Non-Feature category, which showcases both emerging and seasoned filmmakers. Its inclusion underscores the growing influence of regional cinema and highlights Ladakh’s rich cultural essence on a global stage.
