Conversation with Emmy Award-Nominated Filmmaker at Times Square
New York: In the bustling heart of New York City, against the iconic backdrop of Times Square, Tirlok Malik, Emmy Award-nominated filmmaker and a proud advocate of Indian culture, sat down with Young Bites for an engaging conversation about his journey, his passion for cinema, and his deep-rooted connection to India.
Malik, a pioneer in the world of Indian-American cinema, is known for his films that explore the immigrant experience, blending the best of both worlds-East and West. Speaking to Younbites, Malik reflected on his artistic philosophy, stating, “I want to tell stories that resonate with the Indian heart and soul, yet speak to the universal human experience.”
“I am Indian, and my heart always beats for India. The United States is my ‘karam bhumi’ (land of action), but my soul remains Indian,” Malik said. He recalled his 2008 Emmy Award for a program he produced for PBS, calling the Emmy a prestigious recognition, not just for him but for the representation of Indian culture on an international stage.
Malik’s films have often focused on the experiences of immigrants and the bond with their homeland. “I have made films about India,” he said, citing notable works like Lonely in America, which explores the immigrant dream, and ‘Khushiya’, a poignant film about parents left behind in India by their children who pursue opportunities abroad. In ‘Golden Years’, Malik examined the regrets and reflections of people in their twilight years. Reflecting on his frequent travels back to India, Malik said, “I’ve been in New York for the last 30 years, but I visit India every year.” Despite his deep roots in America, his connection to India remains unwavering.
Beyond his filmmaking, Malik has been a vocal proponent of Indian food and culture, promoting India’s culinary heritage in the United States. “India is a Vishwa Guru (world teacher),” he said, emphasizing India’s growing influence on the global stage.
Malik also expressed his admiration for the changes in India under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership. “India has changed under Prime Minister Modi. Our prestige has increased, and we are now a digital country, no longer seen as a land of snake charmers.” Malik noted the rise of Indians in influential roles in the US, pointing out that top CEOs of major global companies are Indian.
“The Indian community here is very happy to meet Prime Minister Modi during his visits to the US. Modi is a great leader with a strong team,” Malik added, acknowledging the sense of pride and unity PM Modi has inspired among the Indian diaspora.