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Kanu Behl is an Indian film director and screenwriter known for his debut feature film, 'Titli', which was nominated for the Caméra d'Or award at the 2014 Cannes Film Festival and received eight international accolades. He is currently discussing his second film, 'Agra,' which was screened and received much applause at the 28th edition of IFFK. 'Agra,' had already been screened at the Cannes Film Festival 2023 under the Director's Fortnight category.

Q: Does Guru, the protagonist in Agra, represent the sexually suppressed life of Indian youth?
A: Absolutely. It's not just the sexually repressed life of Indian youth, but of people of all ages in India. Sadly, we belong to the land of the Kamasutra.

Q: Does repressed sexuality affect other spheres of an individual's and society's life as well?
A: Yes. Sexuality cannot be repressed in a vacuum. It's linked to many other factors that are equally suppressed, leading to a larger cultural context. It speaks about our social life, political life, and shrunken economy, all coming together to create the environment.

Q: How do you use the shrinking space element in Agra as a strong metaphor?
A: We have limited space in our country, with 1.4 billion people crushed into a tiny space. Limited space, lack of basic means, and daily battles for survival are our realities. Many people are still under the poverty line. Although China also has a huge population, they have a lot of land. While we claim to be the fastest-growing economy in the world, we need to truthfully examine our culture and heritage through a rational gaze and be ready to discuss all the burning issues.

Q: How beneficial is OTT for new filmmakers?
A: OTT does not provide space for new filmmakers. OTT companies are primarily tech companies in business. Hoping for OTT to positively impact budding filmmakers is irrational.

Q: What difference does it make between a global audience and a local audience?
A: The local audience comes first in terms of the cultural aspects of the film. They can definitely relate and connect more.

Q: You headed the 15th International Documentary and Short Film Festival of Kerala (IDSFFK). How was the experience, and what is your take on the film culture here?
A: IDSFFK was a lovely experience. The selection of films was impressive. IFFK is beautifully organized, and I am still in the hangover after watching 'Anatomy of a Fall' directed by Justine Triet. The long queue to watch that film made me happy.

Q: About your latest film 'Despatch'?
A: 'Despatch' is in the final stage of pre-production. It delves deep into the world of crime journalism, examining an individual's role as a professional in setting up a better society, his greed, and its pitfalls. Manoj Bajpayee plays the lead role.