I am a passionate filmmaker and writer dedicated to creating socially engaged and independent cinema. Throughout my career, I have directed, produced, and edited award-winning short films that have been showcased at numerous international Oscar-qualifying film festivals. I also co-founded and serve as the Artistic Director of the Smita Patil International Film Festival, a platform that promotes meaningful storytelling and nurtures emerging filmmakers. In addition to filmmaking, I actively contribute as a cultural voice through writing for prominent publications on cinema and literature. I take pride in mentoring filmmakers and preserving the independent spirit of cinema while engaging with a broad community of artists and cinephiles in India and beyond.

Sohil Vaidya

I am a passionate filmmaker and writer dedicated to creating socially engaged and independent cinema. Throughout my career, I have directed, produced, and edited award-winning short films that have been showcased at numerous international Oscar-qualifying film festivals. I also co-founded and serve as the Artistic Director of the Smita Patil International Film Festival, a platform that promotes meaningful storytelling and nurtures emerging filmmakers. In addition to filmmaking, I actively contribute as a cultural voice through writing for prominent publications on cinema and literature. I take pride in mentoring filmmakers and preserving the independent spirit of cinema while engaging with a broad community of artists and cinephiles in India and beyond.

Available to hire

I am a passionate filmmaker and writer dedicated to creating socially engaged and independent cinema. Throughout my career, I have directed, produced, and edited award-winning short films that have been showcased at numerous international Oscar-qualifying film festivals. I also co-founded and serve as the Artistic Director of the Smita Patil International Film Festival, a platform that promotes meaningful storytelling and nurtures emerging filmmakers.

In addition to filmmaking, I actively contribute as a cultural voice through writing for prominent publications on cinema and literature. I take pride in mentoring filmmakers and preserving the independent spirit of cinema while engaging with a broad community of artists and cinephiles in India and beyond.

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Experience Level

Work Experience

Co-Founder, Artistic Director, and Jury Member at Smita Patil International Film Festival
January 1, 2012 - Present
As co-founder and Artistic Director of the Smita Patil International Film Festival, I have shaped its vision to support independent and socially engaged cinema. I curate diverse films from global filmmakers and mentor emerging talents. The festival hosts over a thousand attendees annually, including filmmakers, cinephiles, and cultural enthusiasts, and is recognized for its artistic rigor and cultural significance. I also serve as a permanent jury member, evaluating films for craft, innovation, and impact, upholding the festival's commitment to meaningful storytelling.

Education

M.F.A Film Directing and Writing at University of Southern California (USC)
January 11, 2030 - May 1, 2018
Masters in Computer Science at University of Pune, Sinhgad College
January 11, 2030 - January 1, 2011
Bachelors in Computer Science at University of Pune, PVG College of Science
January 11, 2030 - January 1, 2009

Qualifications

BAFTA Newcomers Los Angeles Fellow
January 1, 2020 - August 29, 2025
James Bridges Directing Scholarship
January 1, 2018 - August 29, 2025
Edward Thomas Troutner Cinematography Scholarship
January 1, 2017 - August 29, 2025

Industry Experience

Media & Entertainment, Education, Non-Profit Organization