Raj Bipin Malde: Crafting Cinema Rooted in Truth
In an age where content is constant and visuals are everywhere, filmmaker and video editor Raj Bipin Malde stands out — not for flashy visuals or viral edits, but for one powerful commitment: truth.
Based in Vasai/Pune, Raj is part of a new wave of Indian filmmakers choosing stories that are often pushed aside. His path into filmmaking wasn’t something he stumbled into — it was something he chose, deliberately, with courage and curiosity.
From Quitting Comfort to Following Curiosity
Raj’s creative journey didn’t begin on a film set. It began in a more familiar place — a work-from-home job, a routine life, and a growing sense that he wanted something more.
“I think this journey began a long time ago,” he says, “but I discovered it just a few years ago.” That discovery came with a leap — quitting his job and moving away from the familiar comforts of home to pursue a filmmaking diploma at Pixel Village.
It was a big move, but one that felt right. Raj had been editing even before formal training, but learning the full language of cinema — its structure, potential, and emotional depth — helped him find his voice.
Why Cinema?
“Cinema itself inspired me to pursue this path,” Raj shares. For him, filmmaking is not just a skill, but a powerful way to express, question, and reflect. “There’s so much you can say through cinema,” he adds — and he’s determined to say what matters.
His approach isn’t about building a “brand” or a recognizable visual style. Instead, it’s about staying grounded in something much more important: truth.
“I don’t know about uniqueness,” Raj admits, “but I know how to speak truth. And to speak about things that are essential.”
Stories of the Unseen
Raj’s lens is drawn toward the margins — toward voices that don’t usually get heard.
“I work with people whose stories are often neglected,” he says. Whether it’s documenting a community or capturing a personal experience, Raj brings a quiet empathy and depth to his storytelling.
One of his most meaningful projects so far has been “VOY”, a short documentary that marks a turning point in his journey. “I’m proud of all my projects,” he explains, “but VOY holds a special place because it’s my first short documentary, and I felt I truly brought justice to the subject’s story.”
The Creative Process: Listen, Wait, Understand
Raj doesn’t romanticize the process. In fact, he’s refreshingly honest about how messy and unpredictable creativity can be.
“I don’t know if there’s a process as such,” he reflects. “But I think if you stay long with the story, its narrative comes to you.”
That patience — that willingness to sit with a subject, observe, and let the story take shape — is what makes Raj’s work resonate.
Inspirations, Influences, and Integrity
Like many passionate artists, Raj draws inspiration from those who came before him. His influences range from legendary directors like Stanley Kubrick, Wim Wenders, Werner Herzog, and Virendra Valsangkar. These names speak volumes — artists known for their depth, complexity, and uncompromising vision.
But more than anything, it’s people who inspire Raj. The ones he meets, listens to, and learns from. Their stories fuel his creativity and keep his work grounded in reality.
The Challenges That Shape the Artist
No artistic journey is without its roadblocks. For Raj, two challenges stand out:
Bringing justice to a story, and
Working with limited budgets.
In an industry often driven by spectacle, Raj’s dedication to honesty and integrity is both rare and necessary. He stays grounded by staying present — by being fully there for the people and stories he’s capturing.
What's Next?
Currently, Raj is working on a new documentary, continuing his journey of exploring real lives and honest narratives. But the bigger dream is already taking shape — a feature-length documentary that will dive deeper into issues and ideas that often go untouched by mainstream narratives.
His Message to the World
Through all his work, Raj hopes to highlight one thing:
“Truth... the kind mainstream news isn’t speaking about.”
He doesn’t want to tell just any story — he wants to tell the right story. One that challenges, informs, and moves.
And to fellow artists just beginning their journey? Raj keeps it simple:
“Make it personal.”
Because when art is personal, it’s powerful. And when it’s honest, it’s unforgettable.
Follow Raj on Instagram @rajmalde to stay connected to his cinematic explorations and upcoming projects. Watch closely — because sometimes, the quietest stories are the ones that need to be heard the loudest.
