Zafar's journey is a testament to the transformative power of embracing one's true calling. Initially pursuing architecture, he soon discovered his innate talent for visual storytelling. Balancing his architectural career with his burgeoning passion, Zafar dedicated weekends to creating videos and refining his editing skills. The realization that his heart lay in filmmaking prompted Zafar to leave architecture behind. Seeking mentorship at "The House on the Clouds," a renowned wedding filmmaking company, he mastered the art of crafting emotionally resonant narratives. This skill expanded into personal travel projects, interweaving cultures, and emotions into evocative stories. Driven by a fascination with fashion and human emotions, Zafar's lens captured the essence of his subjects. From the streets of France to the landscapes of Italy and Turkey, he evolved into a multifaceted filmmaker – cinematographer, editor, writer, and director. Zafar's films echo with authenticity, portraying the intricate threads of the human experience. His journey from architecture to visionary filmmaking exemplifies the profound impact of pursuing one's true passion.

Living in Kerala for a year, I was captivated by Theyyam, an ancient ritual where performers embody gods. Inspired by its rich tradition and deep devotion, I set out to document Theyyam from a fresh perspective—through the eyes of an explorer. Approaching the project from an exploratory perspective, I aimed to offer a unique outlook. In my previous documentaries, I have always sought to capture genuine emotions and present them in a natural and cinematic manner, allowing viewers to truly immerse themselves in the experience. This documentary was no different in intent but more ambitious in scope. As both the director and main editor, I had a clear vision of how I wanted the film to unfold, with a strong emphasis on music to enhance the spiritual experience. Our small team of three faced significant challenges, filming in 42-degree heat and navigating language barriers. With only one other DOP and a line producer fluent in the local language, we had to be precise and respectful, capturing the rituals without any disruptions. With a tentative structure in mind, we embarked on our journey, capturing three different types of Theyyam over nine intense days. Every moment, apart from the interviews, was filmed in the most natural yet meticulously planned manner. Through this documentary, I hope to showcase India's rich cultural heritage from an insider's perspective, offering audiences a chance to experience Theyyam as if they are in the minds of the performers. My goal is to reveal the profound dedication and struggles of those who bring this tradition to life and to share their deeply held beliefs with the world.