Kyrshanborlin Wahlang: Telling Stories Through the Lens
In the quiet town of Nongstoin, nestled in the serene landscapes of West Khasi Hills, Meghalaya, a young storyteller is making his mark on the independent film scene. Kyrshanborlin Wahlang, currently pursuing a degree in Mass Media and Mass Communication at St. Anthony’s College, Shillong, is not just studying filmmaking—he’s living it.
Wahlang’s journey into filmmaking began during the most uncertain of times—the 2020 lockdown. “It was a challenging time,” he recalls, “but it also sparked creativity.” With little more than a script, an Android phone, and a few passionate friends, he shot his first short film, The Vaccine. The experience, he says, was fun, fulfilling, and surprisingly enlightening. “Sometimes bad times can even create opportunities,” he adds—a philosophy that continues to shape his work today.
Since then, Wahlang has continued exploring the world through his lens, favoring action and drama as his primary genres. “Action captivates audiences and keeps them engaged,” he explains, “while drama allows a deeper exploration of life’s realities and societal issues.”
His film KI DAK BYM THOH – THE UNWRITTEN WORDS is a testament to his evolving voice as a filmmaker. The film was officially selected for the prestigious Brahmaputra Film Festival 2023 and Montage National Student’s Film Festival in Hyderabad. It also became his entry to Frames for Change, the short film festival jointly organized by Cinema for a Cause and Lifeplus Magazine. Each festival selection has not only broadened his audience but also refined his directorial vision.
Wahlang’s creative curiosity recently led him to experiment with a different format—a music video titled Mei (meaning Mother in English), which was released on Mother’s Day. A poignant blend of music and documentary, the video tells the heartfelt story of an artist’s journey, seen through the lens of maternal influence.
Despite his growing achievements, Wahlang remains grounded. He advocates for authentic storytelling and encourages fellow filmmakers to rely on their own creativity rather than artificial tools. “A unique story should be the foundation,” he says. “AI like ChatGPT may help generate ideas, but it lacks the personal touch and vision that a filmmaker brings.”
He also shared a thoughtful suggestion with the organizers of Frames for Change: “Link the festival to FilmFreeway. It can increase visibility, attract more participants, and build trust.”
Kyrshanborlin Wahlang’s journey is just beginning, but his passion and commitment to telling stories that matter already shine through. Whether it’s a short film shot on a smartphone or a music video blending narrative and melody, his work reminds us that powerful stories can come from the most unexpected places—and from the most dedicated hearts.
View trailer of Kyrshanborlin Wahlang’s entry film KI DAK BYM THOH (THE UNWRITTEN WORDS) at Frames for Change Film Festival
“KI DAK BYM THOH” is a heartwarming short film that follows the parallel lives of two children, Phrang and Albert, in the village of Phrang. While Albert excels as a literate student, Phrang, an illiterate boy, dedicates himself to learn the ancestral wisdom passed down from his father, leading to unexpected twists in the plot. The story reminds us that there is always something in life that we should always be grateful for.
Watch Kyrshanborlin’s other works:
- The Vaccine (Short Film): Watch on YouTube
- Mei (Music Video): Watch on YouTube
