The Indian short film industry has been flourishing in recent years, with filmmakers experimenting with compelling storytelling, unique narratives, and thought-provoking themes. One of the biggest platforms that has consistently supported short films in India is Royal Stag Barrel Select Large Short Films. This initiative has given talented filmmakers an opportunity to showcase their creativity through impactful storytelling.
For cinephiles and budding filmmakers, Indian short film festivals are a great way to explore new perspectives. While there are many best film festivals in India that celebrate short films, Royal Stag Barrel Select Shorts has carved a niche by presenting high-quality, engaging cinema that stays with the audience.
If you’re looking for some of the most critically acclaimed short films from Royal Stag Barrel Select Shorts, here’s a list of must-watch films that define excellence in the short film industry.
Ahalya (2015) – A Modern-Day Mythological Thriller
Director: Sujoy Ghosh
Cast: Radhika Apte, Soumitra Chatterjee, Tota Roy Chowdhury
One of the most gripping short films ever made, Ahalya is a perfect blend of mythology and modern-day thriller. Inspired by the legend of Ahalya from Hindu mythology, the film takes the viewer on a suspenseful journey where nothing is as it seems.
Why Watch?
It keeps you at the edge of your seat with its eerie atmosphere.
Radhika Apte’s performance is captivating.
The storytelling is tight, mysterious, and unpredictable.
Devi (2020) – A Hard-Hitting Social Drama
Director: Priyanka Banerjee
Cast: Kajol, Neha Dhupia, Shruti Haasan, Mukta Barve, Neena Kulkarni
A deeply moving film that deals with the horrors of sexual violence, Devi brings together nine women from different backgrounds, each a victim of sexual abuse. The film showcases the collective pain and trauma they endure, making it a must-watch for its powerful performances and impactful message.
Why Watch?
A stellar ensemble cast led by Kajol.
A strong social message presented in a subtle yet impactful manner.
Leaves you thinking long after the film ends.
Chutney (2016) – A Tale of Dark Secrets
Director: Jyoti Kapur Das
Cast: Tisca Chopra, Adil Hussain, Rasika Dugal
A simple conversation over chutney turns into an unsettling psychological thriller in this brilliant short film. Chutney explores themes of jealousy, revenge, and hidden secrets, making it an unforgettable experience.
Why Watch?
Tisca Chopra’s outstanding performance.
A fresh take on storytelling with an unexpected twist.
It beautifully captures middle-class Indian households.
Juice (2017) – A Powerful Commentary on Gender Roles
Director: Neeraj Ghaywan
Cast: Shefali Shah, Manish Chaudhary
Juice is a subtle yet hard-hitting critique of the patriarchal setup in Indian households. The film portrays a regular family gathering where men enjoy their leisure time while women struggle in a hot kitchen. With minimal dialogue, the film makes a strong statement on gender inequality.
Why Watch?
Shefali Shah delivers an outstanding performance.
The storytelling is realistic and highly relatable.
A perfect example of how short films can create a deep impact.
Interior Café Night (2016) – A Beautiful Tale of Love and Separation
Director: Adhiraj Bose
Cast: Naseeruddin Shah, Shernaz Patel, Naveen Kasturia, Shweta Basu Prasad
Interior Café Night is a heartwarming short film that revolves around love, lost opportunities, and second chances. The film tells the story of an old couple who reunite after years, rekindling emotions from their past.
Why Watch?
Naseeruddin Shah and Shernaz Patel’s touching performances.
A relatable story about love, choices, and destiny.
Stunning cinematography that captures emotions beautifully.
Ouch (2016) – A Dark Comedy About Modern Relationships
Director: Neeraj Pandey
Cast: Manoj Bajpayee, Pooja Chopra
Ouch is a witty and hilarious take on extramarital affairs. The story follows a man who, after being in a secret relationship for three years, is ready to leave his wife—but things don’t go as planned.
Why Watch?
Manoj Bajpayee’s fantastic comedic timing.
A humorous yet thought-provoking take on relationships.
A refreshing blend of satire and situational comedy.
The School Bag (2017) – An Emotional Story of Innocence and Loss
Director: Dheeraj Jindal
Cast: Rasika Dugal, Sartaaj RK
Set in Peshawar, The School Bag is a heartbreaking tale of a young boy and his mother. The story unfolds with an innocent request for a school bag, leading to an emotional climax that leaves viewers teary-eyed.
Why Watch?
A deeply emotional narrative with a tragic twist.
Beautiful performances by Rasika Dugal and child actor Sartaaj RK.
Highlights the horrors of terrorism and its impact on innocent lives.
Khujli (2017) – A Quirky Take on Midlife Desires
Director: Sonam Nair
Cast: Neena Gupta, Jackie Shroff
Khujli is a refreshing short film that humorously explores the desires of an aging couple trying to reignite their love life. Jackie Shroff and Neena Gupta deliver delightful performances, making this film a fun watch.
Why Watch?
A unique storyline that breaks taboos around aging and romance.
Jackie Shroff and Neena Gupta’s charming chemistry.
Lighthearted and entertaining, with a meaningful message.
Man Woman Man Woman (2018) – A Poignant Story of Changing Relationships
Director: Imran Rasheed
Cast: Naseeruddin Shah, Shernaz Patel
A deeply emotional story, Man Woman Man Woman explores the changes in relationships between an elderly couple. As they navigate their later years, their conversations reveal the complexities of love, regret, and companionship.
Why Watch?
Naseeruddin Shah and Shernaz Patel’s incredible chemistry.
A touching exploration of relationships and aging.
A simple yet deeply moving narrative.
Tindey (2019) – A Comedy with an Unexpected Twist
Director: Seemaa Desai
Cast: Rajesh Sharma, Adah Sharma, Ashwini Kalsekar
Tindey is a lighthearted short film about an elderly man trying his luck on a dating app. What starts as a fun adventure soon takes a surprising turn, making it a delightful watch with an engaging storyline.
Why Watch?
A humorous take on modern dating.
Rajesh Sharma’s endearing performance.
A refreshing mix of comedy and drama.
Final Thoughts
Royal Stag Barrel Select Shorts has consistently provided a platform for meaningful storytelling and engaging narratives. If you’re a fan of short films or looking for some of the best film festivals that celebrate short cinema, exploring these gems from Royal Stag Barrel Select Shorts is a great way to start.
