Apologies for the delayed post. I've been occupied with the festival. "Fire on Water" / 'நீர் மேல் நெருப்பு' had its Asian Premiere at the Osaka Asian Film Festival https://www.facebook.com/OsakaAsianFF

I was here back in 2017 with Jagat. Since then, I've missed the festival, the people, and the country. This time, I'm glad to be here again with the team, including our Post-Production supervisor Samad and lead actresses Rubini Sambanthan and Rupini Krishnan. Unfortunately, our main lead Karnan couldn't make it this time. How I wish he were here.

I still remember planning a longer stay for the festival back in 2017, but I had to rush back to Malaysia since my son's delivery was expected earlier than anticipated. I informed the festival organizers that I had to leave early and offered to cover the flight change charges, but the festival program director, Terouka Sozo San, graciously absorbed the costs as a gift. Such a sweet people.

Hence, I'm glad to be back here to witness the works of other Asian directors and meet them in person. I'm also grateful for the opportunity to serve as one of the jurors for the short film competition. It's a wonderful feeling and experience to be able to watch the voices of young filmmakers from across Asia. I

I'm touched by the fact that almost 5-7 people who watched Jagat back in 2017 came back to watch my second film, "Fire On Water." They vividly remember Jagat, and some even attended two screenings. They mentioned experiencing different layers of emotions the second time around. Such an intimate and lovely festival and people!

9th March 2024