SHERGA SANDEEP JOINS GENERAL COUNCIL OF KERALA STATE CHALACHITRA ACADEMY

Sherga Sandeep, Managing Partner of SCube Films, has been appointed as a General Council Member of the Kerala State Chalachitra Academy. Known for producing Uyare, SCube is now working on a new film featuring Vismaya Mohanlal. Her appointment strengthens the academy’s ties with contemporary Malayalam cinema and independent production.

The Kerala State Chalachitra Academy, the state’s premier institution for film culture and heritage, has welcomed Sherga Sandeep as a General Council Member. Her appointment marks a significant addition to the academy’s leadership, bringing in the perspective of a producer who has successfully navigated the evolving landscape of Malayalam cinema.  

Sandeep is the Managing Partner of SCube Films, a production house that earned acclaim for Uyare, the 2019 drama starring Parvathy Thiruvothu. The film, which tackled the sensitive subject of acid attack survival, was praised for its powerful storytelling and social relevance, cementing SCube’s reputation as a company willing to take creative risks while addressing urgent issues. The production also demonstrated the growing strength of independent film ventures in Kerala, which have increasingly challenged mainstream narratives with bold themes and nuanced performances.  

SCube Films is now preparing for its next project, which features Vismaya Mohanlal, daughter of superstar Mohanlal, in a prominent role. The announcement has already generated anticipation within the industry, as Vismaya’s entry into cinema is seen as a continuation of her family’s artistic legacy. For SCube, the project represents both continuity and innovation, blending established traditions with fresh talent.  

The Kerala State Chalachitra Academy, established in 1998, has long been a custodian of film culture in the state. It organises the International Film Festival of Kerala (IFFK), one of Asia’s most respected cinematic gatherings, and oversees the preservation of film heritage through its Centre for International Film Research and Archives. The academy also administers the Kerala State Film Awards, which remain the highest recognition for artistic excellence in Malayalam cinema.  

By appointing Sandeep to its General Council, the academy signals its intent to strengthen ties with contemporary producers who have demonstrated both artistic vision and commercial acumen. Her experience in steering SCube Films through challenging projects positions her to contribute meaningfully to the academy’s mission of balancing heritage with innovation.  

The appointment also reflects the academy’s recognition of the growing role of women in Malayalam cinema. While the industry has historically been male-dominated, recent years have seen women take on more prominent roles as directors, producers, and writers. Sandeep’s inclusion in the council underscores this shift, offering representation that aligns with the academy’s broader commitment to inclusivity and diversity.  

As Malayalam cinema continues to expand its global footprint, the academy’s leadership must navigate the twin challenges of preserving cultural identity while embracing international collaborations. With Sandeep’s background in independent production and her proven ability to deliver socially resonant films, her presence on the council is expected to enrich discussions on policy, programming, and festival curation.  

Her appointment is not merely symbolic but practical, bringing a producer’s eye to the academy’s deliberations. It ensures that the voices shaping Kerala’s cinematic future include those actively engaged in the industry’s creative and logistical realities. For the academy, and for Malayalam cinema at large, this is a step towards a more dynamic and representative governance structure.