Tire Tire Narmada, the graduation film by Arunoday Thakur, a recent Bachelor of Design graduate in Communication Design from the Institute of Design, Nirma University , has been awarded 3rd prize in a national competition featuring 173 entries from across India, including significant contributions from his home state of Madhya Pradesh.
The film explores the sacred Narmada Parikrama, a tradition where devotees walk the length of the Narmada River, weaving together stunning visuals of the river and heartfelt stories of the Parikramawasis. With its unique perspective on spirituality, culture, and humanity’s connection with nature, Tire Tire Narmada has been celebrated for its depth and originality.
Reflecting on this recognition, Arunoday shared, “Winning 3rd prize is an honor I deeply cherish. This journey was not just about filmmaking but about connecting with the soul of the river and the people whose lives revolve around it. I am grateful for the opportunity to share this story.”
Reflecting on the recognition, Arunoday said, “This honor is not just mine but belongs to everyone who helped shape Tire Tire Narmada. It’s a reminder of the incredible value of collaboration and mentorship.” Arunoday credits much of his success to the exceptional guidance of his professors. “Prof. Ajay Raina helped me understand the intricacies of storytelling and filmmaking, Prof. Rana Swarajsinh supported me in translating abstract ideas into visual narratives, and Prof. Sangita Shroff provided the freedom and encouragement to experiment and grow.”
Arunoday’s education in Visual Communication Design at Institute of Design Nirma University played a pivotal role in shaping his filmmaking approach. “Design helped me think critically, solve creative challenges, and communicate visually. These skills were instrumental in crafting Tire Tire Narmada and ensuring the narrative was impactful,” he added.
Competing against 173 entries from across the country, Arunoday’s achievement highlights the importance of nurturing regional stories with global appeal. “This recognition is not just mine; it belongs to everyone who walked this journey with me—the Parikramawasis who shared their lives, my mentors, and my peers. I hope Tire Tire Narmada serves as a tribute to the beauty and spirituality of the Narmada River and its timeless journey,” he said.
Arunoday’s work exemplifies the fusion of design thinking and cinematic storytelling, and this recognition marks a significant step forward in his journey as a filmmaker. He aspires to continue creating meaningful films that resonate deeply with audiences.