No, the competition is open to everyone, provided you have sufficient skills in filmmaking: storytelling, camera operation (composition/lighting), basic editing, and audio recording. This can be proved by submitting any previously produced short films or work samples.

No, it is not compulsory, but we strongly recommend it. Including an architect, a social scientist, or an urbanist can deeply enrich your film’s narrative and depth.

Urban in India is a diverse and evolving state rather than a fixed image. Hence, cities and towns in India might express urbanity in different ways. The film does not need to be set in a major metropolitan centre, but it should engage with an urban context and avoid purely rural settings.

Each team must have one primary contact to streamline communications and logistics. We recommend 2-3 collaborators per team. Team members, once registered, need to remain constant throughout the process.

If a new member is added, the Nagari team needs to be informed, and the mentor kept in the loop. Changes to the team can only be made in unavoidable circumstances. Please note that if a team withdraws mid-competition, the entire grant will be revoked.

Each team is encouraged to submit one strong proposal. However, if you have more than one idea, you are welcome to submit them as separate entries.

A person can be a part of multiple teams during the proposal submission stage. After the final films are shortlisted, overlapping team members across various films are not allowed.

One person can be a part of only one film team after the final film proposals are shortlisted.

It is a brief preview of how the film will look and feel. We recommend that you submit images and videos related to your script. It need not be a finished sequence, but should clearly communicate your context, story and cinematic approach.

Nagari provides a grant of Rs 75,000 to each team. The funds will be disbursed in 3 instalments, linked to stages of the film’s progress. The management of the costs under or beyond this grant is the responsibility of the team.

No, the mentorship process is not optional. Mentorship is central to the Nagari process. Selected teams are required to work closely with their designated mentors to develop their films.

Yes, the films can be in any Indian language. The final film must be submitted with a separate English subtitle track.

Films should be strictly non-fiction documentary films. However, experimentation in filmmaking is encouraged, as long as the work is set in a real urban context and aligns with the themes listed in our detailed brief.

In a case where the team is unable to attempt or finish the film, the entire funding shall be revoked.

No extensions will be granted. The teams are requested to manage their time to ensure that all deadlines are met.