NFDC Screenwriters’ Lab 2024: Six Projects Selected from 150+ Applications for Intensive Development Program

The chosen screenwriters come from diverse backgrounds, including ad films, short films, novel writing, documentaries, and feature films.

The National Film Development Corporation (NFDC) has selected six projects from over 150 applications for the 17th edition of its Screenwriters’ Lab. This year’s participants represent 21 states and have submitted scripts in various languages including Hindi, Urdu, Pahadi, Punjabi, Assamese, Malayalam, Konyak, English, and Maithili. The NFDC Screenwriters’ Lab aims to develop, nurture, and promote original voices in Indian cinema.

The chosen screenwriters come from diverse backgrounds, including ad films, short films, novel writing, documentaries, and feature films. They will undergo a three-part intensive training program, working closely with esteemed mentors to refine their scripts. The program is designed to prepare the screenplays for pitching to domestic and international producers and investors at Film Bazaar 2024.

Selected Projects for NFDC Screenwriters’ Lab 2024:

Hawa Mithai by Anuritta K Jha – Maithili & HindiA magical journey of a 6-year-old boy and his friend, inspired by the legend of Lord Hanumanji, to win back his mother’s love.

I'll Smile in September by Aakash Chhabra – Hindi, Urdu, Pahadi & PunjabiA young brass band player in Old Delhi strives to regain his smile and move on after a traumatic incident.

Kalaa Kaali (The Art Of The Dark) by Anam Danish – English & HindiSiblings uncover a generational curse while investigating a family death and seek to end it using black magic.

Konyak by Uddhav Ghosh – Konyak Naga, Hindi & EnglishAmidst a deadly feud in Nagaland, a young warrior battles betrayal and fights to protect his community.

Mangal - The Holy Beast by Triparna Maiti – Assamese, Malayalam & HindiThe story of an elephant who becomes a revered deity but fights for freedom from his chains.

Piyush Ki Toh...Nikal Padi (To Pee or Not To Pee) by Piyush Srivastava – HindiA comedic tale of a man’s humorous and heartwarming struggle to keep his bedwetting problem a secret during a visit to his in-laws.

Mentors for the 2024 Lab include:

Marten Rabarts: Founder of NFDC Screenwriters’ Lab, former Festival Director at New Zealand International Film Festival, and influential figure in international film development.

Claire Dobbin: Acclaimed script editor and producer with extensive experience in film industry development and international screenwriting workshops.

Ritesh Shah: Renowned screenwriter with notable works such as Pink and Citylights, and multiple awards for his contributions to Indian cinema.

The NFDC Screenwriters’ Lab is known for its success in fostering award-winning films like The Lunchbox, Lipstick Under My Burkha, and Dum Laga Ke Haisha. The 2024 batch will benefit from the program’s extensive mentorship and training, culminating in a pitching session at Film Bazaar to connect with industry producers and investors.