Kiran Rao on Indie Film Economics: Why ₹150 for Homebound Matters

Kiran Rao’s Insights into Independent Cinema

On the final day of DIFF 2025, Kiran Rao hosted a ‘Vision and Voice’ masterclass. She examined the shifting landscape of indie films, noting how streaming services have expanded audience reach. However, she questioned whether viewers are actually willing to pay for these films.

“Will you spend ₹150 to watch a film like Homebound or Sabar Bonda? That is a crucial question for us filmmakers. Why do we create these films without a guaranteed audience? It often frustrates me,” Rao expressed.

Having served as an Executive Producer on various indie films, Kiran highlighted a significant gap in distribution channels. “We cherish the experience of watching films in theatres, sharing insights with filmmakers, and appreciating the art together. However, for most people, the option to see films in theatres is simply not available,” she elaborated.

Spotlight on DIFF 2025

The festival also featured the Indian premiere of the Venice-winning film Songs of Forgotten Trees, directed by Anuparna Roy, and the impactful documentary With Hasan in Gaza by Kamal Aljafari. After four days filled with engaging cinema and discussions, the festival concluded, transforming the mountain town into an outdoor cinema.

DIFF 2025 also showcased three official Oscar submissions: Homebound from India, I, The Song from Bhutan, and The Wolves Always Come At Night from Australia, screened at Hermann Gmeiner Hall and inflatable digital theatres. Additionally, masterclasses by Adil Hussain and Andrey A. Tarkovsky discussed cinematic legacies.