R Balki

NATIONAL FILM AWARD WINNING FILMMAKER, CREATIVE STORYTELLER, ADVERTISING PRO

About

One of modern Hindi cinema’s most influential filmmakers, R. Balki, has built a reputation as a master storyteller whose films have entertained millions while setting new benchmarks for original, thoughtful, impactful storytelling. His work is widely admired for its creativity, sensitive direction, strong narratives, and cultural relevance.

His debut with “Cheeni Kum” (2007), starring Amitabh Bachchan, offered a fresh take on love and set the tone for a new era of modern, original storytelling. After which, R Balki and Bachchan went on to collaborate on multiple projects, showcasing their creative synergy and resulting in some of the most iconic films in Indian cinema. His filmography showcases the most diverse range of subjects.

Cheeni Kum, 2007 (Writer & Director)
Paa, 2009 (Writer & Director)
English Vinglish 2012 (Producer)
Shamitabh, 2015 (Writer & Director)
Ki & Ka, 2016 (Writer & Director)
Pad Man, 2018 (Writer & Director)
Mission Mangal 2019 (Writer & Co-Producer)
Chup, 2022 (Writer & Director)
Ghoomer, 2023 (Writer & Director)

Before entering the cinema, he built a legendary career in advertising as the Chairman and chief creative officer of Lowe Lintas, where he led the creation of many iconic campaigns and built some very strong brands.

Surf Excel: Daag Acche Hai
Tata Tea: Jaago Re
Idea: What an idea sirji
Havells: all products
Bajaj: Hamara Bajaj to Feel like God
Tanishq: From the launch to the remarriage campaign
Parker pens: Amitabh Bachchan series

Awards and Accomplishments

R. Balki’s creative brilliance in advertising & cinema has earned him many accolades both in advertising and cinema in India and the rest of the world. His work continues to be recognized for its originality and entertainment, combining creativity and social impact in the simplest and most compelling way.

Advertisements

Honors at Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity
Induction into the Advertising Hall of Fame

Films

National Film Award for Best Feature Film in Hindi – Paa (2009)
National Film Award for Best Film on Social Issues – Pad Man (2018)
Best Director, Indian Film Festival of Melbourne – Pad Man (2018)
66th National Film Award for Best Film on Other Social Issues – Pad Man (2018)
Multiple nominations at Filmfare, IIFA, and Screen Awards across Best Director, Best Story, and Best Screenplay

Why R Balki?

R. Balki is a filmmaker whose work is celebrated by both critics and mainstream audiences. His films are remembered for strong scripts, layered performances, and cultural impact. His experience leading advertising campaigns and film crews has made him highly skilled in collaborations, working with complex teams, managing diverse projects, while being uncompromisingly originalqualities that make him a good choice as a speaker to address the corporate audience.

Topics he can cover: