KOLKATA: After a three years’ stint, Netflix India original films director Srishti Behl Arya has decided to move on. The veteran content creator joined the streaming service in May 2018 just when it began to expand its Indian content team. 21 May will be her last day at the company.
Behl Arya has played a pivotal role in building Netflix India’s original film slate as starting from Hindi and then moving to regional markets as the competition around streaming intensified. In the last couple of years, the streaming giant has aggressively built its local library, enhanced its content investment in India. It began the year by unveiling a library with more than 40 originals consisting of as many as 13 movies.
“Srishti has played a foundational role in building our original film slate in India, launching 35 titles over three years with critical acclaim and fandom including Guilty, AK vs AK, Bulbbul and Serious Men, and our first Tamil and Telugu films, with Paava Kadhaigal and Pitta Kathalu. We wish her every success and know she will bring her passion for storytelling to her future endeavours,” Netflix India VP content Monika Shergill said.
Leading the Netflix originals film team in India over the last three years has been the adventure of a lifetime, Behl Arya stated. “I am incredibly grateful for this opportunity and have learned so much along the way. I couldn’t be more proud of the stories we’ve told, from first time directors, female filmmakers, established voices and so many fresh faces. I wish this wonderful team all the very best and can't wait to see what's ahead,” she added further.
However, film remains a focus and priority investment for the streamer in the country. India is a key focus area for Netflix. It has not only commissioned local language content but has moderated subscription packs for mobile centric viewers, and launched its Hindi user interface.