Today we’d like to introduce you to Karishma Devnani.
Hi Karishma, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I was born and raised in India. I have always found solace in storytelling. As a kid, I always read books, and by the time I was in 11th, I was skipping a class or two to watch movies. That passion for narratives only grew stronger and stronger as the time passed by. I was supposed to major in mass communication, but after my 12th, I decided to go a different way and chose the entertainment industry.
I have immersed myself in various roles of filmmaking. I have always preferred the quiet hum of a room which is why I chose “Film Editing” as my major in my undergrad. As I embarked on my journey into the industry, my first job was as an assistant editor at a Bollywood Television Influencer’s company. It actually helped me hone my skills and discover my passion for various editing styles but as I worked more and more in the industry, my interest was piqued by the production process, which is why after working as a film editor and freelancing in India, at the age of 23, I decided to move to Los Angeles, with a pocketful of dreams to become a producer.
I have produced around 10 short films since last year and edited 3 short films. I know that I am doing what I was meant to do. I am confident that this is my true calling – telling stories that make people think, that serves as a reminder they are not alone and that help people in any way possible.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way? Looking back, would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It definitely wasn’t an easy road. When I realized I wanted to get into filmmaking, my parents were against it because they thought it wasn’t an actual career that someone could pursue. My parents and I had a lot of arguments for the first few years of me choosing filmmaking, I also wasn’t super confident at that time and was never taken seriously. Luckily, I kept going and believed in what I was doing and thanks to my friends who pushed me and kept me going as well because if it weren’t for them, I would never be able to believe in myself the way I do currently. Regardless of all the setbacks, I am really glad I stuck through it, kept pushing, and developed a habit of getting what I want without giving up.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I primarily work as a producer and as an editor. In addition to editing and producing, I also on roles as a Production Designer on various projects.
I am most well-known for my ability to craft compelling narratives through editing and for my keen eye for detail in production. I have worked on several projects spanning different genres. My specialty lies in editing films and overseeing the production process from start to finish as a producer.
I create thought-provoking and impactful stories that resonate with the audiences. I’m particularly proud of two projects I’ve worked on: “Breaking Pointe,” a short film about redefining success on one’s terms, and “Slava,” a short film about artists expressing themselves freely. Currently, I’m also in the process of developing two short films that I will be writing and also developing a feature film. Keep an eye out for updates on that!
Is there a quality that you most attribute to your success?
I believe creativity, adaptability, and perseverance are the most important characteristics to my success. Creativity allows me to approach everything from a unique perspective, being adaptable allows me to navigate challenges. I am one of those people who cannot stay still until they get what they want, which is why I say perseverance. It allows me to stay focused and dedicated and pursue opportunities.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://karishmaariid.wixsite.com/my-site
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ariiisartsy/
Image Credits
Valery Li
Surya Nikhil
Vyshnav Baburaj
