TVAGA (Telangana VFX, Animation and Gaming Association) is a non-profit association dedicated to promote and develop Media & Entertainment eco system in Telangana. Telangana is the most integrated IT & Creative media ecosystem in India. While Telangana has been a leader in the area of IT/ITeS, Creative industries like Film, Content, Digital Animation, VFX, Gaming & Comics industry are well supported by a futuristic policy and Center of excellence to establish Telangana as a truly creative industry hub. The association is led by Industry leaders and creative minds of Animation, VFX, Esports, Gaming and Comics arena. TVAGA is one of the Consultative Committee members to facilitate incentives of Image policies and works closely with Department of IT to facilitate events and other networking platforms like Indiajoy. TVAGA thrives to improve welfare and professional integrity of Artists, Technicians, Students, Mentors, Educators, Studio executives, Supervisors, PR/marketing specialists, Producers, Entrepreneurs and every other stakeholder of the Industry.

1.What are the most pressing challenges you see student and aspiring filmmakers facing when trying to break into the industry today?

Aspiring filmmakers face major challenges like limited funding, lack of industry connections, and oversaturation of content. Despite talent, many struggle to stand out or sustain a career without strong networks, practical skills, and strategic visibility.

2. In your opinion, what kind of support or infrastructure is currently lacking for early-career filmmakers — especially in areas like legal literacy, mentorship, or showcasing their work?

Early-career filmmakers often lack legal literacy, structured mentorship, accessible funding, and platforms to showcase their work. Affordable legal guidance, consistent mentorship programs, and regional film festivals or OTT partnerships could significantly bridge these critical gaps in their creative journey.

3. Do you believe there is enough visibility and access to platforms for student and short filmmakers to share their work with a wider audience? Why or why not?

No, there isn’t enough visibility. Most student and short filmmakers lack access to mainstream platforms, funding, and networks, limiting their reach despite the abundance of talent and compelling stories.

4. What role can industry-focused organizations like yours play in bridging the gap between film education and professional opportunities for young creators?

Industry-focused organizations  can bridge the gap between film education and careers by offering mentorship, internships, industry-academia collaborations, real-world project exposure, masterclasses, and networking platforms that align curriculum with market demands.

5. How important is it for student filmmakers to have access to simplified legal guidance, standardized contracts, or production resources early on?

Access to simplified legal guidance, standardized contracts, and production resources is crucial for student filmmakers. It protects their creative rights, prevents exploitation, and builds professional habits. Early exposure to these tools helps them navigate real-world challenges confidently, saving time, reducing risks, and preparing them for industry-level work.

6. Would a platform that supports young filmmakers with mentorship, legal awareness, and a space to showcase short films (such as KeepItShort.net) be valuable to the ecosystem? Why or why not?

Yes, a platform like KeepItShort.net would be highly valuable as it bridges critical gaps in mentorship, legal literacy, and visibility. It empowers young filmmakers with guidance, protection, and exposure, fostering a more inclusive, skilled, and opportunity-rich creative ecosystem.

7. How could your organization potentially collaborate with or support platforms like KeepItShort.net to help nurture emerging creative talent in India?

Our organization could collaborate with platforms like KeepItShort.net by offering mentorship from industry professionals, co-hosting short film festivals and workshops, facilitating access to funding or grants, promoting legal and policy awareness, and integrating promising talent into real-world AVGC (Animation, VFX, Gaming, Comics) projects. Such partnerships can create a strong pipeline between raw talent and industry readiness.