Himansu Sekhar Khatua

National Award-Winning
Film Director - Filmmaker - Educationalist - Journalist

No one would have imagined that a student once scolded for mistakes in a village school drama would go on to redefine storytelling in Indian cinema. Himansu Sekhar Khatua stands today as a symbol of artistic perseverance and cinematic excellence.

Prof. Himansu Sekhar Khatua is a distinguished academician, visionary administrator, acclaimed filmmaker, sound designer, and media leader, who has contributed immensely to the growth of Indian cinema, film education, and media institutions. With more than three decades of professional excellence, his multifaceted career reflects a rare combination of artistic creativity, administrative acumen, and institution-building capacity.

Early Life & Education

Born on 21st December 1965 in Bhadrak, Odisha, Prof. Khatua pursued his passion for cinema at the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII), Pune, where he completed his Post Graduate Diploma in Cinema. His grounding in aesthetics, practice, and interdisciplinary approaches enabled him to navigate and excel in diverse domains of film practice, education, leadership, and policy-making.

Academic and Institutional Leadership

Prof. Khatua’s role as an institution builder has been as impactful as his cinematic career. His contributions span state, central, and private institutions, where he has created ecosystems for creative education, research, and training.

Himansu Sekhar Khatua

Director, Satyajit Ray Film & Television Institute (SRFTI), Kolkata

A visionary academic and filmmaker, Himansu Sekhar Khatua has played a defining role in shaping contemporary film education in India—bridging policy, practice, and pedagogy.

Led India’s premier national film school with vision and institutional foresight.

Unified film education under UGC and Ministry of Information & Broadcasting.

Initiated University status for SRFTI & FTII.

Introduced Practice-based Ph.D. in Film Education.

Established Pramod Pati Art & Technology Museum.

Director General in establishing Schools at KIIT University.

Expanded interdisciplinary creative programs.

Journey into Cinema

Prof. Khatua began his career as a sound designer with the landmark Odia film Indradhanura Chhai (dir. Susanta Misra), which heralded a new wave of cinema in Odisha. Soon, he transitioned into a filmmaker of international repute, with his directorial works gaining recognition at both national and global platforms.‘Indradhanura Chhai’ marked the films/beginning of a meaningful journey.
Explore His Journey →

The Craftmanship

Through his films, he explores complex human emotions, cultural narratives, and real-world issues, creating impactful cinema that resonates with audiences. Each project showcases his dedication to craft, innovation, and meaningful expression in the field of film and media.

Achievements & Recognitions

A journey defined by creativity, impact, and recognition across the cinematic world.

National Recognition

Honored at the national level for excellence in filmmaking.

Award-Winning Films

Celebrated across prestigious film festivals and platforms.

Global Presence

Films screened internationally, reaching diverse audiences.

Creative Impact

Powerful storytelling reflecting culture and society.

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Contribution & Leadership

Beyond filmmaking, he has contributed significantly to cinema culture through Kalinga Global Film Festival and as jury member in various international platforms. He currently serves as Director of SRFTI Kolkata, marking a historic achievement as the first filmmaker from Odisha to hold this prestigious position.