Lucknow: Senior journalist and short filmmaker, Sudhir Mishra, whose short film Ghuspaithiya Kaun? has been making the right noise for its bold take on man-animal conflict, has worn many hats in the media space. Having represented India, nation- ally and internationally, he has reported on multiple events, issues, and social causes, earning respect for his balanced and insightful storytelling. His profession, he says, has taken him to places “most people can only imagine.”
Solution Based Journalism Matters
Speaking to The Lucknow Tribune, Sudhir Mishra admits that the space for issue-based, solution-ori- ented journalism is shrinking. “Today, sensitivity in journalism is the need of the hour,” he stresses. “Young journalists entering the field must have subject expertise. Without depth and understanding, storytelling becomes shallow. Journalism should never be about self-promotion or profit-it should serve the larger good of society.” Reflecting on his journey, he recalls the transformations that reshaped the world from the 1980s to 2010. “From joint families to nuclear ones, from typewriters to digital dashboards, the world changed be- fore our eyes. I started with humble means, learning to write copies, operate computers, understand the internet, and now the art of visual storytelling. Each phase taught me to adapt and grow.”
Journalistic rigor as we know it
On Ghuspaithiya Kaun?, he explains, “The film reflects the same journalistic sensitivity I have always believed in. Without branding someone as a thief, dacoit, or terrorist, we must understand context. An accused is not a criminal until proven guilty. Similarly, in the jungle, humans must respect nature’s laws. It’s a symbolic representation of a sensitive subject without unnecessary drama.”
Homework in anything must
Talking about the making of the film, he shares, “I researched forest laws and environmental regulations extensively. People like Mohammad Ahsan guided me with legal and factual insights. Producers Sameer and Nehi Agarwal supported the project wholeheartedly. Vinita Mishra lent her home and car for the shoot, and Bharat Samachar helped with the broadcast logistics. It was made with limited resources but boundless dedication.” Mishra credits Director Dheeraj Bhatnagar for his creative execution. “It was a non-profit learning experiment,” he says. “For me, it was about under- standing the craft and combining journalistic ethics with cinematic language.”
Driving Change is key
With over three decades in me- dia-15 years as a reporter and 15 as an editor-he finds joy in telling. meaningful stories. “I’ve attended seven UN Climate Summits, met world leaders, and covered major global events. Yet, what gives me peace is telling stories that help society reflect and evolve.”
On the future of media, he adds, “AI and digital tools are game changers, but we need balance. Technology should not replace ethics. People centric, solution-based journalism is the way forward. Print will always matter-because
credibility outlives clicks.”
Clarity and focus should drive youth
To young journalists, his message is clear: “Decide your focus be it advertising, marketing, political com- munication, or journalism. Work sincerely for four to five years, learn your craft, and never lose your sensitivity.” Looking ahead, Sudhir plans to work on a Hindi-language project, promoting vernacular storytelling. “Hindi and other Indian languages hold our cultural depth,” he says. “Understanding them can bridge divides between the north and south and spark innovation. The future belongs to those who tell stories in their own language, with honesty and heart.”
The story idea
Ghuspaithiya Kaun? is a powerful short film that explores the delicate balance between humans and wildlife, raising vital questions about coexistence and responsibility. Directed by Dheeraj Bhatnagar, written by Sudhir Mishra, and produced by Sameer Agarwal and Nehi Agarwal, the film delves into themes of identity, justice, and moral introspection through a gripping, thought-provoking narrative. The lead of the film Gunjan Jain has been receiving critical acclaim.
Through its layered storytelling and compelling performances, Ghuspaithiya Kaun? manages to deliver a strong message within the brevity of the short film format. Its visual storytelling and emotional depth make it stand out as cinema with a purpose. Garnering acclaim across festivals, the film resonates deeply with audiences for its realism and artistry, establishing itself as a shining example of socially conscious filmmaking emerging from UP’s evolving creative landscape.
