He is a visionary filmmaker whose work has revolutionised Indian and international cinema. From his directorial debut Masoom (1983) to the iconic Mr. India (1987), he redefined the Indian film industry, blending social commentary with commercial success. His international acclaim grew with Bandit Queen, which earned praise at the Cannes Film Festival, and the historical epics Elizabeth and Elizabeth: The Golden Age, which garnered Academy Award nominations and BAFTA wins. His innovation extends beyond feature films, with his involvement in digital storytelling, short films, and mentoring the next generation of filmmakers. He served as Chairman of the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII) and is currently the Director of the International Film Festival of India (IFFI). He has also spoken at global events and researched storytelling in new technologies during his time at MIT. Passionate about environmental issues, his upcoming film Paani addresses water scarcity, further solidifying his legacy as a filmmaker who uses his craft to address important societal themes. Through his groundbreaking work, he has inspired countless filmmakers and remains a global force in storytelling.