The Big Reveal | 6th Indic Film Utsav

Danji Thotapalli is the Co-founder and Chief Curator at Center for Indic Films. He is a senior global sourcing professional with a passion for cinema. Having spent the past 10 years at major Hollywood studios – previously at NBC Universal and Sony Pictures – Danji understands the power of film and the extent of its reach. In addition to working in Hollywood, Danji has been associated with the Indian Film Festival of Los Angeles for about 12 years, and comes with a deep insight into all facets of running a film festival such as community outreach, sponsorship/funding, event management, programming and media relations. Currently, Danji volunteers as a Vice President at ManaBadi, a reputed Telugu-language school in the US, and is responsible for ideation and implementation of value-added curricular and extra-curricular programs. Danji wrote and published a book of short stories titled 'Hanuman in America' set in the American milieu for teenagers born and raised in the Western world. Danji is passionate about pre-Buddhist Andhra history, and enjoys immersive experiences that blend modernity with tradition.

As Head of Programming, Nikita Vyas Hattangady plays a key role in supporting both emerging and established filmmakers. She is deeply passionate about championing narratives that celebrate the richness and depth of Indic cultural heritage while also promoting themes of positivity, resilience, and community. Nikita is a filmmaker whose films have been featured at numerous international film festivals. Her storytelling often explores themes of social issues and personal transformation, delivered with an uplifting and inspiring tone. Beyond her contributions to cinema, Nikita is the author and illustrator of 'We Are American', a beautifully crafted children’s picture book that explores and celebrates the diversity of the United States. Her storytelling continues across various media, bridging her cultural roots with broader themes of unity and belonging. Nikita holds degrees in both Electrical Engineering and Business Management, blending analytical thinking with creative vision. Outside of her professional work, she enjoys traveling, spending quality time with family and friends, and nurturing her lifelong passion for cinema, which remains at the heart of everything she does.

Dee is our Sponsorship and Outreach Head. A passionate movie buff based in Dallas, Dee has turned his love for cinema into a thriving community. As the co-founder of Dallas Movie Buffs, he has created a dynamic platform for film enthusiasts, and performing arts lovers to connect, discuss, and celebrate their shared interests. The group fosters networking opportunities among movie lovers, filmmakers, actors, and technicians, making it a hub for collaboration and creative exchange. Beyond his dedication to cinema, Dee is an accomplished Enterprise Architect who brings strategic thinking to his professional endeavors. His interests extend far beyond movies—he is an avid traveler, always eager to explore new destinations and cultures. He also enjoys cooking, experimenting with flavors, and sharing his culinary creations with friends. Whether through professional networking or artistic engagement, Dee thrives in environments that encourage connections, creativity, and intellectual exchange, making him a well-rounded and inspiring individual.

Megha is our Events and Finance Head, seamlessly blending her analytical expertise with a passion for service. An electrical engineer by training, she transitioned into a full-time Realtor, bringing precision and a keen understanding of her clients’ unique needs. Beyond her professional life, she is deeply involved in the Ramakrishna Mission, actively participating in spiritual activities that reflect her commitment to personal growth and community service. Her love for cinema extends beyond casual viewing—she is an avid follower of world cinema, appreciating the artistry and cultural narratives that shape global filmmaking. Megha’s multifaceted background and unwavering dedication make her an invaluable part of our team, always ready to create meaningful experiences, whether through real estate or events.

Vishy Putcha is Head of Indica Social at Indica Pictures. A Senior Project Management professional based out of Detroit Michigan, Vishy is one of those individuals who is aficionado of film and filmmaking. He runs a Facebook page called Cinema Adda which is a well-known platform for all things cinema. Vishy is passionate about storytelling, actor performances, and cultural paradigms that define Indian cinema. Whether it’s classic movies, contemporary blockbusters, or hidden gems, Vishy engages in discussions that celebrate the artistry of film as an artform. He firmly believes that the best way to learn about film is to speak with filmmakers of all shapes and sizes. His goal is to build a platform that bridges the gap between film enthusiasts in the US with those in India. Vishy will lead the Indica Filmmaker Social at the upcoming 5th Indic Film Utsav in Dallas. He will helm a series of filmmaker events ranging from Workshops, Panels, Contests, and Q&A sessions all of which aim to create a platform for filmmakers that are located in the US or Canada.

Srini is our Contests and Conferences Head. An award-winning writer, musician, filmmaker, and actor, Srini is trained in Indian classical and jazz music. He has composed background scores for over 70 short films and 8 feature films, including the Nandi Award-winning Atreya. His animation film Vemana features 108 poems in 108 ragas. As a screenwriter, Srini has written 20 Telugu plays, 15 short films, and 3 feature films. He has acted in 10 films (Taskara, Vindhya Marutham), plays, and web series (Maranam) His recent film Sreekaram, which he wrote, co-directed, and scored, won Best Film at the K. Viswanath Memorial Short Film Contest and Dada Saheb Film Festival. Srini is the co-founder of Amritavarshini Academy, president of IFAA (DFW), and director of 6Elements Productions, where he nurtures classical music, dance, and film.

Aparna Sridhar is Chief Editor Conversations, INDICA. She writes on Indian traditions and culture and has been part of the INDICA family for over 8 years now. She has been interviewing film makers for Indica Pictures documenting their journeys and contributions.