Green Chutney Films aims to be the go-to source for captivating narratives: Manan Bhatt

Adgully has been turning the spotlight on the entrepreneurs who fought against all odds to bring their dreams to fruition in our special series – START-UP STARS. We at Adgully wholeheartedly support the ‘Vocal for Local’ movement and have been featuring numerous local/ homegrown businesses, brands, and Apps in the country launched in the last few years.

In conversation with Adgully, Manan Bhatt, Co-founder and Creative Head, Green Chutney Films, speaks about the growth and entrepreneurial journey, story behind the founding of Green Chutney Films, establishing a foothold in the filmmaking industry, how storytelling can be a powerful tool, venture into the media platform, and much more.

What inspired you to venture into the media platform and content curation space?

To be honest, we were inspired by the transformative power of video content. Recognizing the growing significance of visual storytelling, we saw an opportunity to carve out our unique niche in an increasingly crowded market. Despite initial challenges like competing against larger brands, our belief in the potential of video content becoming a pivotal element in brand strategy remained steadfast. Witnessing the evolving landscape where video emerged as a central component further fuelled our passion and determination. Today, our specialisation in video content not only distinguishes us but also drives our commitment to delivering innovative and impactful solutions to our clients and audiences alike.

Could you share the story behind the founding of Green Chutney Films? How has the journey been so far?

The three of us (Rahul, Chintan and I) have been friends for 20 years now. While adulthood had each of us exploring other career paths post-college, our love for cinema held us together. A few years later, with the content sector booming and the internet becoming more accessible, we bonded over our mutual love for chakna and green chutney, casually discussing the idea of starting our own company. A month later, we left our old jobs and GCF was born. With limited capital, the cafes of IIM Ahmedabad, along with Chintan and my apartment served as our make-shift headquarters. As outsiders, we were – and to an extent still are – competing with the big names of advertising. But to be able to hold our own in a sea of such established greatness, I’d say, makes our journey both inspiring and humbling. Our work speaks for itself, and our roots have helped us face challenges head on.

Green Chutney Films has collaborated with various brands. Could you share an example of a project that stands out in terms of impact and creativity?

One of our standout projects at Green Chutney Films was the Berger ‘Chiku Ki Painting’ campaign for Diwali, which sparked meaningful conversations and garnered significant attention. This campaign creatively shed light on colour blindness, bringing awareness to a lesser-known issue during a festivity known for colour and vibrancy.

Additionally, our collaboration in the impact space with Nepra on a Waste Management Film proved to be both impactful and innovative. Not only did it help us win SGD (Sustainable Global Development) awards, which boosted our client numbers, but it also played a crucial role in defining a new category of brands focused on sustainability and environmental consciousness. These projects exemplify our commitment to creativity, impact, and pushing the boundaries of storytelling in the media landscape.

What challenges have you faced in the filmmaking industry, and how have you overcome them to establish Green Chutney Films as a creative force?

In the filmmaking industry, the challenge of reduced budgets due to digital demands has been significant. However, this shift has also decentralised the filmmaking process which has provided opportunities for talented individuals to showcase their skills. At Green Chutney Films, we have embraced this change by innovating, optimising resources, and fostering creativity, which I believe establishes us as a creative force in the industry.

Where do you envision Green Chutney Films in the next few years, and what goals are you striving to achieve?

In the coming years, we see Green Chutney Films leading the way as a premium video content house. Our aim is to be the go-to source for captivating narratives, both locally and globally. We're committed to delivering strategic branded content, compelling fiction, and thought-provoking documentaries that redefine storytelling and inspire audiences worldwide. Our goal is to continuously push our creative boundaries while maintaining a focus on quality and impact.

For those aspiring to enter the filmmaking industry, what advice would you give them based on your experiences?

Based on my experiences, my advice is quite simple: keep creating and pushing the boundaries of your craft. Quality work speaks for itself and will always find its audience.

How do you believe storytelling can be a powerful tool for creating impact, whether for brands or societal narratives?

A compelling story resonates deeply with audiences, leaving a lasting impression. It allows us to explore diverse perspectives and experiences, aligning with the core ethos of a brand while engaging with audiences on a personal level. By leveraging storytelling as the potent tool that it is – we can bridge gaps, evoke emotions, and inspire action, ultimately shaping perceptions and driving meaningful change in both brands and society.