Lillete Dubey talks about Finding Peace Within at the Rajnigandha Presents Jagran Film Festival, saying, “Your Mental State Determines the Way You Look”
The 14th edition of Rajnigandha Presents Jagran Film Festival (JFF), the world’s largest travelling film festival, commenced its celebration of cinema in Delhi today with a diverse line-up of screenings, conversations and masterclasses bringing together filmmakers, actors and audiences. Among the thought-provoking panel discussions at the festival was a session on ‘The Ethics of Storytelling’, featuring acclaimed actress Lillete Dubey, filmmaker Pan Nalin and actor-filmmaker Aimee Baruah.
The session explored the larger responsibility that comes with telling stories and the influence cinema can have on the way audiences see themselves, others and the world around them. The speakers reflected on creative freedom, representation and the need for storytellers to be mindful of the impact their work can leave, while still remaining true to their artistic vision.
Speaking at the panel discussion, Lillete Dubey said: “I am a firm believer that your mental state, even more your physical state, your mental state actually determines the way you look. If you are in harmony with your surroundings and your nature, you are at peace with that. When I see older people, and I see if they are not very happy with themselves, with their lives, the inner face comes out. So it is very important that before you start trying to do a thousand things, first fix the inside a little bit, then I don’t think you need to do so many things.”
The conversation brought together personal reflection and the larger questions surrounding storytelling, exploring how cinema can shape perceptions across generations and communities. From representation to creative freedom, the session highlighted the delicate balance between artistic expression and the responsibility that comes with putting a story into the world.
With screenings, conversations and thought-provoking sessions bringing together diverse voices from the world of cinema, JFF will continue to create a space where films go beyond the screen to spark meaningful conversations about society, culture and the world we live in for the next 3 days in Delhi.
