What does it take to go from film school at NYU to working with Zoya Akhtar on one of India’s most iconic streaming shows, Made in Heaven? For cinematographer Neeraj Jain, the answer lies in telling stories through light, building trust across borders, and committing to frames that honor complexity and nuance.

In this episode of Chai with Champs, Neeraj shares his path from training under masters to becoming a DP who moves fluidly between India and the U.S. He breaks down the real challenges young cinematographers face, the debate between mastering gear vs mastering vision, and how OTT platforms and AI are changing the craft. From the raw truths of indie filmmaking to building min(d) studio as a space for socially rigorous stories, Neeraj reveals what it takes to create work that lasts.

Chai with Champs is the Center Stage for South Asian Cinema Follow us: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chaiwithchamps/Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@RitikaAgrawalll

[00:00] - Welcome to the Episode!

[01:00] - Meet Neeraj Jain: The Eye Behind the Camera

[05:58] - Cinematography Explained: Turning Emotions Into Screens & Building the Right Team

[10:20] - How to Reach Out, Collaborate & Get Noticed in the Industry

[17:00] - Embracing Uncertainty: Why the “Work in Progress” Journey Matters (and the Role of Film School)

[22:30] - From Film School to Made in Heaven: How Neeraj Worked with Zoya Akhtar & Navigated India vs USA Work Culture

[29:30] - The Business of Filmmaking: AI, Producing, Distribution & What You Should Be Doing Right Now

[45:00] - Spill the Chai | Rapid-Fire with Neeraj

[50:00] - Advice to His Younger Self & The Legacy He’s Building

[52:00] - Bringing South Asian Cinema to the Global Stage