Divya Kharnare

Directing

Birthplace: Mumbai, Maharastra, India

Divya Kharnare is a young filmmaker and storyteller with over eight years of experience in crafting compelling narratives across feature-length documentaries and fiction films. His career began at BhaDiPa, a regional Marathi YouTube channel, where he spent three years directing comedy sketches, music videos, and non-fiction content. Following this, he transitioned into independent filmmaking, directing acclaimed documentary films such as 15 Seconds A Lifetime, P for Paparazzi, and Letters to My Grandma. These films have premiered at prestigious platforms, including the International Film Festival of India (IFFI), Dharamshala International Film Festival (DIFF), New York Indian Film Festival (NYIFF), and the International Documentary & Short Film Festival of Kerala (IDSFFK). In 2022, Divya was selected for the Kyoto Filmmakers Lab, where he worked as an Assistant Director on the Hands-On Jidaigeki project. He further expanded his work by serving as the DA (Director’s Assistant) and 2nd Unit Director on the Amazon Original Love Storiyaan, produced by Dharmatic Entertainment and helmed by Hardik Mehta. Divya’s dedication to the craft has been recognized through various accolades, including the DOC Aviv Award at Doc Edge Kolkata, Special Jury Mentions, and Best Editing Awards at IDSFFK. His work consistently explores nuanced themes, blending social realities with an evocative touch of magic realism. Recently graduating as a Direction student from the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII), Pune, he continues to explore innovative ways to merge fantasy and realism in his storytelling.