MAATI I Short Film I Vevek Upadyay I Naatakbaaz Productions

And now, after completing its journey through film festivals, here's MAATI. A film born out of passion, driven by purpose, and held together by intent and a deep love for the people behind the story. Quite literally a no-budget film, MAATI would not have been possible without the generosity, dedication and contribution of everyone who came together to make it happen. My heartfelt gratitude to all the craftsmen involved in its making and to everyone who stood behind the camera, giving their time, talent and belief to this little endeavour. This film belongs as much to all of you as it does to me. At the heart of MAATI are our potters — not merely workers who shape clay, but skilled artisans whose hands bring the spirit of our festivals to life. They are the custodians of an age-old tradition, carrying forward generations of knowledge and artistry. Yet, their livelihoods face growing challenges in a rapidly changing world. Despite the odds, they continue to strive for the survival and revival of this traditional art form. As we celebrate our festivals with lights, colours and decorations, let's not forget the people whose hard work makes so much of that celebration possible. Their contribution deserves more than a passing appreciation. It deserves recognition, respect, support and, above all, a sustainable future. Let's not just celebrate the festival. Let's celebrate the people who make it possible. Let's make their Diwali a little brighter, just as their creations brighten ours. MAATI is a small cinematic endeavour with a larger intent — to draw attention to the lives of our potters, their struggles and the need to revive a traditional livelihood before it fades away. Because traditions don't survive on nostalgia alone. They survive when we choose to stand by the people who keep them alive. This one is for our potters. This one is for the hands that shape our celebrations. This one is for MAATI. CAST - Vevek Upadyay, Adwitia Ghosh, Roshan Khan Produced, Written & Directed by - VEVEK UPADYAY D.O.P & Background Music - DEEPANJAN ROY Editing & D.I. - NAVNEET KUMAR SINHA #Maati #SupportOurPotters #TraditionalArtisans #IndianTraditions #SustainableLivelihoods #SocialImpactCinema #IndependentFilm #VevekUpadyay