We recently connected with Krisha Bafna and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Krisha, thank you so much for joining us today. There are so many topics we could discuss, but perhaps one of the most relevant is empathy because it’s at the core of great leadership and so we’d love to hear about how you developed your empathy?
Throughout my journey, the conditions that paved the way for my development of empathy were far from easy, despite the misconception that growing up in a financially stable family equates to a smooth ride. Very few people are aware of these battles I was fighting within.
In the eyes of my family, being a girl meant inherently falling short. From childhood, I battled with feelings of inadequacy, constantly reminded of societal expectations that deemed me ‘not enough’ – not enough because I wasn’t a boy. To my high school friends I wasn’t enough because I wasn’t fair skinned or didn’t look pretty enough. I never felt comfortable in my own skin, and, eventually a naughty kid turned into a very quiet teenager.
Reflecting on my past, I recognize that I had to continually prove myself, battling against the prejudice that girls were somehow inferior and destined solely for marriage.
At 19, during my second year of architecture school, the challenges intensified when I fell sick with a debilitating illness. Suddenly the simplest of tasks felt impossible thing to accomplish. Imagine what goes on in the mind of a second year architecture student when she can’t hold a pencil and draw a straight line. The mental, emotional and physical toll was immense, and I found myself lost without a purpose. It felt like I was a burden to everyone around me. I struggled with my classes almost finding it difficult to pass. My world seemed to contract. With each passing day, my confidence shrank with uncertainty. Yet, with 2 years of handwork and unwavering support from my parents and close friends, I found my way back from my depression, emerging stronger and more resilient than ever before.
My journey culminated in academic success, earning a place in the top 5 during my thesis level of my B.Arch degree and eventually pursuing a master’s degree in Production Design in California.
Through it all, I have cultivated a deep sense of empathy, stemming from my own struggles and the realization that everyone has their battles to fight. I refuse to be the cause of someone else’s pain, drawing upon my experiences to understand the circumstances that shape individuals’ actions and decisions.
Im so grateful for the friends and family who stood by me in the darkest moments, recognising that everyone might not be luck enough to have a safety net.
To every girl who is trying to navigate societal prejudice and find her own voice, remember that your own goes beyond the narrow confines of convention and your potential knows no bounds!
Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
Growing up in a tumultuous environment, I would always keep to myself, be doodling and observing life. Art and design became an outlet for my emotions and creativity. The character of the space driven by its user and just the mere detailing and distinctive appearance each structure intrigued me. With its dynamic architecture, Mumbai, pushed me into pursuing Architecture academically.
During my Bachelor’s in Architecture, I explored many components of design, discovering that design is omnipresent. An elective class in Architecture in Cinema sparked a newfound interest in Production Design. I had a new appreciation for the mood and character of spaces with the help of light, shadows, reflections and rain that create incredible variations.
Cinema is subjective. It creates a visual stimulation of numerous diverse emotions which we may not otherwise freely experience. It is a form of communication. Particularly for me, it’s about escaping reality and at the same time being able to discover my emotions. My background in architecture provides a strong foundation for understanding the technical aspects and proportions of Set Design, while Production Design allows me the creative freedom to explore details and characterizations. I perceive films as a canvas which is the unification of a writer’s idea, an actor’s character portrayal, the visuals and background, all brought to life by a director – The art of creating fantasies and portraying realities. My MFA in Production Design from Dodge College of Film and Media Arts has enabled me in understanding these facets.
In recognition of my dedication and talent, I was fortunate enough to be selected as an apprentice in the Art Director Guilds’ local 800 Production Design Initiative Program’ 2023.
Recently, I had the opportunity to serve as a Production Designer for two independent feature films, as well as take on the role of Art Director for several music videos and vertical format shows in Los Angeles. Ive worked on over 30 commercial with Production Designer Nimish Kotwal, with brands like Sketchers, JBL, Reebok, Nivea, Amazon Prime, etc in India.
I hope to develop newer tools for me to innovate, and gain experiences that will be crucial for my development as a filmmaker and allowing me to create art that will leave a lasting impact on the audience. Every second of working on a set is a chance to live in someone else’s life.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
Reflecting on my journey, I’ve found three qualities to be paramount: hard work and resilience, honesty, and empathy. These virtues have been my guiding lights, helping me forward in both personal and professional endeavors.
Work hard as if you have everything to lose. Embracing the curves and setbacks as opportunities for growth only to make the next decision or job easier!
Honesty is the bedrock of trust and integrity. By being truthful in our actions and interactions, we attract like-minded individuals and foster genuine connections. See how far people are ready to go and mend the rules, when they trust the person they’re working with!
Humans are inherently social beings, and relationships are integral to our journey. Surrounding ourselves with supportive individuals enriches our experiences and accelerates our learning. Humans are stories and we must learn how to read them. and by empathising with them and understanding their perspectives, we create deeper connections and gain invaluable insights. As a team leader, it can foster great working relationships with the team.
Alright so to wrap up, who deserves credit for helping you overcome challenges or build some of the essential skills you’ve needed?
In my journey, the most influential figures in helping me overcome challenges and develop essential skills have been my family specially my parents, grandfather, close friends, and mentors. While I’ve always embraced independence, they have served as unwavering pillars of support. My parents, especially my mother, have instilled in me the strength and resilience to face adversity head-on. She is a fighter, and she’s has inspired me to navigate through life’s hurdles with determination and courage. My father’s guidance has been invaluable in navigating life’s twists and turns, teaching me invaluable lessons along the way.
I have found profound wisdom from my grandfather. His remarkable journey from humble beginnings serves as a reminder that success is attainable through hard work, resilience, and honesty.
Moreover, mentors and teachers from my time in Architecture school and Chapman University and Production Designer Nimish Kotwal have played pivotal roles in shaping my journey. Their expertise and encouragement have provided me with the necessary skills and support to overcome obstacles and reach new heights.
Contact Info:
- Website: http://krishabafna.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/krishabafna/?hl=en
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/krisha-bafna-7ba9511b0/
- Other: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm12985377/?ref_=ext_shr_lnk
Image Credits
Amir Ghani, Mihika Das
