How does a hate incident spark a storyteller’s successful film career and inspire a lifelong commitment to confronting difficult experiences and shining a light on them?

Rita Meher is a filmmaker, activist, and co-founder of Tasveer, the world’s only Oscar-qualifying South Asian film festival. Her path from a small village in India to becoming a leader in the arts community of Seattle is one of resilience and purpose. Inspired by the challenges she faced as an Adivasi and the post-9/11 climate in America, Rita has dedicated her career to creating space for marginalized voices and becoming a trailblazer within the film community for social change and justice.

In this episode, Rita shares her invaluable insights on:

• (1:45) Growing up as an Adivasi
• (4:40) Nalini Iyer’s historical segment: how caste discrimination persists in the Indian diaspora
• (11:30) The effect of post 9/11 hate incidents in America
• (17:05) The role of film festivals and film markets
• (23:51) Growing to love Seattle
• (27:06) The importance of staying focused

Desi Roots and Routes: Pathways to Success of Indians in America is brought to you by the Roundglass India Center at Seattle University. Join our host, Sital Kalantry, Professor of Law and Director of the Roundglass India Center as she delves into the incredible stories of Indian Americans exploring their roots in India and the routes they took to become inspiring leaders in America.

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Additional Resources:

• Tasveer Film Festival
• Tasveer Film Fund
• Tasveer Film Market
• Art Beat - Office of Arts & Culture
• Equality Labs
• Article: Suraj Yengde - Global Castes