An IIT Bombay student whose pen allowed him to forge a path beyond his engineering degree became known through his creative endeavors. Nitesh Tiwari's cinematic career did not begin in film school but within the walls of Hostel No. 4. The young man, drawn to books, theatre, and performing arts during his studies at India's premier engineering institution, realized that his interests extended far beyond his field of study. Today, Nitesh Tiwari is the director of films such as 'Dangal' and 'Chhichhore,' and he is overseeing the massive 'Ramayana' project, estimated to be worth approximately ₹400 billion.
Nitesh Tiwari's story serves as an example that a career does not always progress strictly according to plan or in line with one's degree. Sometimes, even a small opportunity gained during student years can change the entire direction of life.
It is worth noting that Nitesh Tiwari earned a BTech in Metallurgical Engineering from IIT Bombay in 1996. However, his connection with the institution was not limited to lectures and exams. In an interview given to Mumbai Mirror in 2019, he spoke about his time in Hostel No. 4, recalling the apprehension felt by new students on the IIT campus.
He soon discovered that life inside the hostel walls differed greatly from the image painted by engineers. He recounted how his seniors noticed his talent for pantomime, which is acting without words. They encouraged Nitesh to participate in IIT Bombay's cultural events, including the renowned Mood Indigo festival.
Gradually, his interest in storytelling began to grow. During his second and third years, he started writing scripts for skits. Among his early works were horror-comedies based on ghosts and haunted houses.
The IIT Bombay Performing Arts Festival (PAF) provided Nitesh with a significant opportunity to immerse himself in theatre. At this event, teams from various hostels presented their performances. In his final year, Nitesh staged a musical titled 'A Touch of Evil.' The plot of this production revolved around two wizards and a loving couple caught between them. This play won the prestigious PAF trophy award.
Nevertheless, Nitesh's interests were not confined to theatre. He was the captain of his hostel's football team and participated in the 4x100 meter relay alongside football, volleyball, and hockey. For his sporting achievements, he received the title of 'Sportsman of the Year.' In 1996, he was also awarded the 'Scroll of Honour' by the institute.
After graduating from IIT, Nitesh worked for some time in a software company, but his passion for writing led him to the world of advertising. According to the IIT Bombay alumni profile, he spent about 18 years in the advertising sector, collaborating with companies such as FCB Ulka, Lowe Lintas, and Leo Burnett. He reached the position of Creative Director at Leo Burnett in Mumbai.
Following this, he began finding his niche in the film industry. In 2011, he debuted in directing with the film 'Chiller Party,' which won a national award for the best children's film. He subsequently directed acclaimed films such as 'Bhootnath Returns,' 'Dangal,' and 'Chhichhore.' He also participated in the scriptwriting process for movies like 'Nil Battey Sannata' and 'Bareilly Ki Barfi.'
