Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does "South Asian" mean?
This typically refers to people originally, or descended from, India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Bhutan, and Afghanistan.
Q: If I don't identify as South Asian or South Asian American, can I still join or work with you?
Our primary mission is to elevate South Asian talent, so our memberships and workshops are focused on supporting people who identify with that background. However, beyond our memberships, we are more than happy to work with everyone, either as a cultural resource, to help with casting calls or job postings for your project, etc. Feel free to contact us if you have a query about this.
Q: I'm a filmmaker/writer/actor. How can I workshop my material at Kalakars?
Kalakars workshops are currently run in New York City, on a seasonal basis - spring and fall. If you have a script (short, feature, pilot) or a rough cut of a project, you can submit using the form in our HOW TO JOIN section. Once we receive your application, our committee will assess it to see if we can accommodate it. If accepted for a season of workshops, there will be a reasonable membership fee, which goes towards keeping our lights on.
Q: I don't have a project I'm currently working on, but can I still join the community?
Yes! Our workshops thrive because of many members who come just to support our creators who are workshopping their material. Our community members will also get perks, such as first notice for job opportunities in the film/tv industries, casting calls, and discounts with industry vendors. You can apply for membership by going to the HOW TO JOIN section, and telling us about yourself. If accepted, there will be a membership fee.
Q: What if my membership is declined?
We receive a lot of applications, and we will try our best to accommodate your membership request. But please keep in mind that limitations in space and resources mean that we do have to be selective. But don't give up on us, and we won't give up on you.
Q: Who owns the material developed and/or read at Kalakars sessions?
Any script material developed and/or read at Kalakars is owned by the writer/director who brings it in. Kalakars does not claim rights or ownership of any material brought to our labs.
Q: How do I legally protect the material I bring in to the workshops?
We strongly advise all creators who bring in material to workshop, to register it with the WGA or US Copyright Office first. In addition, we ask our members to sign blanket NDAs to respect all projects. While we pride ourselves on establishing a safe and supportive space in our workshops, Kalakars is not responsible for the legal protections of your material.
Q: Can Kalakars give me funds to get my film made?
At the moment, we are not a grant-making organization. However, if a Kalakars member is fundraising for their project, the collective networks of our group will assist in finding the right leads for you to pursue financing.
Q: I work in the film/tv industry and need help/resources to incorporate more underrepresented characters and/or talent into my film or TV show. Can you help?
Definitely! Authentic representation is crucial to us, and we're happy to consult with you on your film or TV show. Get in touch with us and let us know what you're looking for, and let's start chatting!
Q: I have more questions. How can I contact you?
We'd be happy to connect with you. Get in touch with us: hello@kalakars.org.