Archive · 28 May 2025
Richie Mehta on Storytelling, Veto Power, and Social Impact
Richie Mehta, a filmmaker, shared his approach to storytelling, emphasizing respect and responsibility towards his subjects.
He gave those involved in the stories, like Delhi Crime's investigation of a gang rape, the power to stop the project if they wished.
Mehta highlighted the importance of portraying the 'duality' of India, showcasing both poverty and artistic talent, along with the strength of those, like the police, working to solve the crimes.
His process includes extensive research, seeking truth in stories, and honoring the people he's covering.
He later made the show, 'Poacher' to raise awareness about wildlife crime.
Mehta sees storytelling as a means to create understanding and address social issues while maintaining a commitment to those whose lives are depicted.
Richie Mehta, a filmmaker, spoke about his approach to storytelling at Waves 2025 in Mumbai.
Mehta prioritizes giving subjects veto power over their stories, ensuring their consent.
His work, like Delhi Crime, aims to show multiple facets of India.
Delhi Crime delves into the lives of police officers and the issues surrounding sexual violence.
Mehta also created 'Poacher' to address wildlife crime, viewing it as an issue worth highlighting.
- Who
- Canadian film director and writer Richie Mehta.
- What
- Richie Mehta discussed his approach to storytelling, focusing on respect for subjects and social impact. He spoke about his experiences creating Delhi Crime and Poacher, including research and subject consent.
- When
- Recently, at Waves 2025 Summit; around 2012 for Delhi Crime investigation, and ongoing for Poacher and wildlife crime.
- Where
- Mumbai, India; also Delhi, Kerala, and wildlife crime conferences globally
- Why
- To discuss his approach to storytelling, the importance of portraying subjects respectfully, and the impact of his work on raising awareness.
- Notable Works
- Delhi Crime and Poacher
- Approach
- Show respect and give the subjects veto power.
- Focus
- Investigating the 2012 Delhi gang rape and wildlife crime.
- Delhi Crime's goal
- Showcasing the lives of those working to solve crimes.