Abhishek Galshar
Abhishek Galshar is an acclaimed Indian cultural visionary and entrepreneur, celebrated for his pioneering role in shaping platforms that uplift independent filmmakers, performing artists, and digital creators. As the founder of the Short Film Mantra International Film Festival (SFMIFF), OTT Cinema Awards, and Vibrant India Talent Awards, Galshar has significantly contributed to the democratization of art and culture in India by providing recognition and exposure to thousands of emerging talents.
Early Life and Education
Abhishek Galshar was born in Surat, Gujarat, India. His early years were marked by a deep curiosity for storytelling and visual media. Although he initially enrolled in an engineering program, his passion for the arts led him to change course and follow a creative path.
He began his artistic training under the mentorship of legendary theatre director Satyadev Dubey, a turning point that anchored his dedication to dramatic arts. Further enhancing his expertise, Galshar attended the Zee Film Academy and later completed a certificate program at the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII), Pune. These formative educational experiences laid the groundwork for his multidisciplinary engagement with film, theatre, and event production.
Career
Theatre and Artistic Foundations
Galshar’s professional journey began in theatre, where he worked as an actor, writer, and director. His theatrical experience allowed him to develop a nuanced understanding of performance, direction, and storytelling. He directed several stage productions and participated in regional theatre circuits, gaining recognition for his creative approach and thematic depth.
Short Film Mantra International Film Festival (SFMIFF)
In 2010, recognizing the need for a credible platform dedicated to short films, Galshar established the Short Film Mantra International Film Festival (SFMIFF). The festival quickly gained traction and became one of India’s leading venues for short films. With over 15,000 submissions and participation from more than 45,000 filmmakers globally, SFMIFF is a thriving hub for cinematic innovation. The upcoming 15th edition of the festival will be hosted in Surat, Gujarat in September 2026.
OTT Cinema Awards and Digital Recognition
With the rise of Over-The-Top (OTT) platforms, Galshar expanded his efforts into the digital space by launching the OTT Cinema Awards. This initiative was designed to spotlight excellence in online content, a sector often overlooked by conventional award shows. The OTT Cinema Awards honor creators, actors, and producers who have made substantial contributions to web-based entertainment.
Vibrant India Talent Awards and Nationwide Talent Hunt
To further support multidisciplinary talent, Galshar founded the Vibrant India Talent Awards, an annual Mumbai-based event that celebrates artistic achievements in acting, music, dance, and writing. In 2025, he introduced the Vibrant India Talent Show, a large-scale talent hunt focused on identifying and nurturing singers and dancers. Winners are offered music video contracts and mentorship, creating real career-launching opportunities.
Impact and Contributions
Abhishek Galshar’s initiatives have reshaped the Indian cultural landscape by bridging the gap between emerging artists and the industry. His festivals and awards platforms are inclusive spaces where talents from remote or marginalized regions can find national and even international audiences.
He has organized over 900 events, including theatre productions, film festivals, fashion shows, and talent showcases. Galshar is also a strong advocate for socially responsible art. His outreach campaigns for animal welfare and public awareness demonstrate a deep commitment to social issues.
Recognition and Awards
Galshar’s work has garnered numerous accolades over the years. Notable honors include:
- Best Director and Writer for the short film *Awareness* at the San Francisco International Film Festival (2007)
- Best Short Film for *Daughter* at the Durban International Film Festival (2016)
- Official Selection for *Lockdown* at the Cannes International Film Festival (2019)
These awards reflect both his creative excellence and his ability to communicate profound themes through short-form storytelling.
Personal Life
Currently residing in Surat, Abhishek Galshar remains single and deeply involved in his creative and social endeavors. He spends his free time reading, writing, mentoring young artists, and developing new projects aligned with his artistic vision. A strong advocate for animal rights and community welfare, Galshar continues to lead initiatives that merge culture with compassion.