Lane Cove North Local Aniket Deshkar has transformed from a passionate photographer to a short film producer to a feature-length film producer starring one of Australia’s favourite singers Guy Sebastian.
Aniket’s journey began with a keen eye for capturing moments through photography. This visual sensibility naturally evolved into cinematography, where he honed his skills in crafting compelling narratives through moving images. This passion for visual storytelling ultimately propelled him into film production.
As a filmmaker, Aniket Deshkar is committed to creating thought-provoking and inspiring cinema that entertains and leaves a lasting impact. His passion for filmmaking began at a young age, as he watched films and became curious about the production process. However, it wasn’t until his move to Australia in 2017 that he could genuinely pursue this passion.
The move to Australia provided the perfect environment for his transition from photography to cinematography. He also found himself deeply involved in the storytelling process in this creative space, contributing as a co-screenwriter on projects.
Aniket has produced several short films, including Blame the Ovens, directed by Ali Sayed (who also directs Hindi-Vindi). The film was nominated for five awards at the Made in the West Film Festival in Sydney. It has a social message about unity and diversity.
Hindi-Vindi
Aniket’s latest venture, Hindi-Vindi, is a testament to his unwavering dedication to storytelling with a message. It was one of the first Australia-India co-productions backed by Screen Australia.
Hindi-Vindi is about a Kabir, a 17-year-old boy who is conflicted about his cultural identity and struggles with a language barrier when his Indian grandmother comes to live with him in Sydney.
The relationship between the two is strained, but they bond over music.
When his grandmother suffers a cardiac arrest, Kabir sets out on a mission to learn Hindi and wants to surprise her with a Hindi rap song at an inter-college festival.
This experience transforms Kabir, instilling in him a deep appreciation for language and cultural connection.
Guy Sebastian plays his dad.
After 2 years, Kabir is a global icon and a renowned musician who promotes language and culture through music and performs Hindi rap at an International music festival in Mumbai to honour his grandmother.
The film is the culmination of years of dedication and a deeply held belief in the power of cinema to connect people.
Driven by this vision, Aniket co-founded 24Six Films, a production company committed to bringing culturally rich and entertaining stories to a global audience.
The production company’s name includes the number 24, which stands as a powerful symbol of strength and unity within the Indian nation, with each spoke in the wheel representing a distinct state or union territory. Likewise, the number 6 resonates with the Australian Flag’s stars, embodying democracy, peace, and harmony.
“I started making films because I believe cinema can connect people from different cultures and entertain them,” Deshkar told ITC.
What does a Producer Do?
Aniket’s first job was to obtain funding to make the film.
He believes Screen Australia supported the film because the story is so compelling.
The producer also assembles the cast and crew and arranges shooting locations.
The movie was filmed over 29 days in Sydney, at locations like Galston, Strathfield, and the Sydney CBD. It was filmed primarily with local actors and a local crew. The producer is also responsible for distribution in cinemas and streaming platforms.
The film premiered in February 2025 in 43 cinemas across Victoria and New South Wales. The next step is to sign a streaming deal.
Avyan Deshkar (Son), Minal Deshkar (Wife), Guy Sebastian, Aniket Deshkar
Guy Sebastian’s Debut Acting Role
How does an independent movie producer from Lane Cove North convince one of Australia’s favourite singers to star in his debut movie? It all started with a cold call.
Initially, the idea was to ask Guy to record music for the film. Guy started composing some music for the film and then it was suggested he should also act in the film. The rest as they say is history.
India Today published an article about the film and noted:
“Apart from acting, Guy Sebastian has also composed music for the film. When asked about how his Indian roots influenced his music and acting career, the singer responded, “Indian culture has always played a huge role in my life. I’ve always admired Hindi singers, and the technical difficulty involved in their craft. Growing up, I’d listen to my mum speak Hindi and wish I could understand it better. Working on this film allowed me to connect more deeply with my heritage, and it was a true honour to collaborate with Neena ji and Mihir while bringing my music to a project so close to my heart”
The music from the film is available on Spotify here.
“Hindi-Vindi” is more than just a film; it’s a bridge. It’s a tangible manifestation of Aniket’s commitment to forging new pathways for Indo-Australian collaborations.
He’s creating stories that transcend geographical boundaries and cultural differences by bringing together talent and resources from both countries. Let’s hope Aniket can strike a deal with a streaming company soon so Lane Cove locals can see Hindi-Vindi.
Help ITC to Keep Providing Free Local News in 2025
