Gaurav Madan

Last Updated: November 4, 2023

Gaurav Madan, a multi-talented individual hailing from the small town of Yamunanagar in Haryana, India, has left an indelible mark on the world of filmmaking. His journey into the world of storytelling began at a tender age of ten when he discovered his deep-seated passions for writing and music. These early sparks of creativity would later evolve into a remarkable career in the film industry.

Gaurav’s academic pursuits led him to the University of Pune, where he pursued a Masters in Communication Studies. However, his ambitions extended far beyond the classroom, and he soon found himself drawn to the vibrant city of Mumbai, the epicenter of the Indian film industry, to transform his dreams into reality.

Upon arriving in Mumbai, Gaurav embarked on a journey to fulfill his cinematic aspirations. He honed his craft by working alongside esteemed directors, including Shashank Ghosh (known for “Quick Gun Murugun”) and Raja Menon (“Barah Aana”), gaining valuable insights and experience in the world of filmmaking. This invaluable experience laid the foundation for his future endeavors.

As his career progressed, Gaurav Madan emerged as a freelance Advertising Film Director, producing and directing over 200 TV and digital commercials. His creative vision and storytelling prowess soon led him to establish his Ad Production Company, Last Joker Pictures, headquartered in the bustling metropolis of Mumbai. This move marked a significant milestone in his professional journey, allowing him to craft narratives and visual stories that resonate with audiences.

Gaurav’s talents extend beyond the realm of advertising. In 2014, his feature film script titled ‘Shaktipur Crude’ gained recognition by becoming a part of the prestigious Sundance Screenwriters Lab, an achievement that highlighted his prowess as a writer. Subsequently, he became a valued contributor in various writer’s rooms and earned the distinction of being a semi-finalist in Cinestaan Storytellers in both 2017 and 2018, showcasing his proficiency in crafting compelling narratives.

One of his significant accomplishments in the world of cinema is his 2017 short film, ‘Sambhavtaha’ (Probably). This captivating work found its way to more than 50 national and international film festivals, including prominent events such as IDSFFK, MAMI, and the Kolkata International Film Festival. Gaurav’s exceptional talent was acknowledged through multiple awards for ‘Sambhavtaha,’ including Best Director, Best Writer, and Best Short Film. The film was released on Zee5 in May 2020, further cementing his reputation as a gifted filmmaker and storyteller.

Gaurav Madan’s foray into feature filmmaking brought forth his debut feature film, ‘Barah by Barah (12×12 Untitled).’ This remarkable work received its Indian premiere at the International Film Festival of Kerala (IFFK) and its international premiere at the Shanghai International Film Festival in 2021. The film went on to tour numerous film festivals worldwide, amassing accolades, including the Grand Prix for Best Feature Film at FIPRESCI India, solidifying his position as a visionary director.

Continuing his impressive creative journey, Gaurav’s second feature film script, ‘Kanda Vanda,’ was recognized by the NFDC Filmcity Script Lab and earned a development award at the West meets East Screenplay Lab within the Dhaka International Film Festival. His script for ‘Shani Yantra’ is also on the horizon, set to be produced by Reliance Entertainment, signaling his expanding influence and contributions to the cinematic landscape.

Gaurav Madan’s career is a testament to his unwavering dedication to the art of storytelling and the exploration of the human experience through the lens of a camera. His pursuit of self-discovery and his relentless commitment to the world of filmmaking make him a noteworthy figure in the industry, and his unique and compelling voice continues to captivate audiences worldwide. With each project, he redefines the boundaries of storytelling, promising more wonders in the realm of cinema.