Garima’s Lens
Creative researcher at Gubbara, former journalist, and unapologetic lover of Hindi cinema.
Editor's note
From newsroom deadlines to discovering untold narratives for the screen, Garima’s journey is rooted in curiosity and an enduring love for film.
At Gubbara, Garima’s job is about bringing overlooked stories to life. “My primary role involves finding and pitching stories that are lesser known or rarely talked about, and translating them into something palatable for the visual medium,” she says. “I also dabble into other aspects of filmmaking and help wherever I can.”
A former journalist with The Indian Express and The Quint, she followed “an all-encompassing love for films” into this field. What keeps her inspired? “It’s always open to ideas and brainstorming about where a simple thought can take a story.”
“It’s always open to ideas and brainstorming about where a simple thought can take a story.”
Garima is proudest of her series on student suicides in Kota: “I spoke to students, parents, grieving families, and every stakeholder possible to understand what is pushing so many kids there to take their lives, and where society needs to intervene.”
She brings “a sharp editorial sense, an ear to the ground, and a basket full of ideas” to her team ; plus, she laughs, “unnecessary trivia about pop culture, the internet, and Reddit gossip.”
One thing people often miss? “There’s always an abundance of stories, the hard part is deciding what makes the cut.”
“Stories are everywhere — the challenge is choosing which ones matter most.”
Her love for filmmaking wasn’t sparked by one moment. “I just loved this world too much to not be a part of it.” First movie memories blur between Harry Potter in the school library and Amitabh Bachchan films with family. Childhood favourites? Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham and Kuch Kuch Hota Hai. “I unapologetically love Hindi cinema, no guilty pleasure movies,” she adds.
If she could collaborate with anyone: “Karan Johar and Shah Rukh Khan.” The character she relates to most? “Anshuman from Jab We Met.” A film that changed her perspective? “Gangs of Wasseypur.”
“I unapologetically love Hindi cinema — no guilty pleasures.”
She believes in telling “stories that speak truth to power, show a mirror to society, and are entertaining.” And for cinema’s future? “Intersectional, women, and queer-led stories.”
At its heart, Garima’s work is about seeing what others miss, and telling it well!