Mayur Patankar’s remarkable journey from a small town in rural India to the vibrant world of Hollywood is a testament to his passion for storytelling through the lens of cinematography. Born and raised in Bramhapuri, where filmmaking wasn’t a typical career path, Patankar pursued his passion against the odds, moving to Los Angeles seven years ago to study Cinematography at the New York Film Academy. Since then, he has worked with major global artists such as Billie Eilish, Snoop Dogg, and Travis Scott, all while keeping his deep connection to his Indian roots alive.
For Patankar, cinematography is not just about mastering technical skills; it’s about understanding and adapting to different artistic visions. “Whether I’m working with Billie Eilish or Travis Scott, my goal is to align with their vision while subtly infusing my own creative sensibilities,” he explains. His work consistently blends the vibrant colors, rich textures, and cultural essence of his Indian upbringing with a universal visual language, captivating audiences around the world globally.
With a background in forensic science and sports photography, Patankar brings a unique, analytical approach to his craft. His meticulous attention to detail, combined with an eye for dynamic and energetic shots, has made him a sought-after cinematographer in the commercial and music video industries. His portfolio includes high-profile campaigns for global brands like Nike and Apple, as well as visually stunning music videos and films, such as 'The Guilty', starring Jake Gyllenhaal.
Despite his success in Hollywood, Patankar is driven by a desire to bring his experience and expertise back to India. “The American dream, for me, is not about becoming more Western,” he says. “It’s about taking the skills and knowledge I’ve gained here and using them to tell Indian stories in a way that resonates both at home and abroad. My Indian dream is to have my work enjoyed by audiences across the country, from the smallest towns to the biggest cities.”
One of Patankar’s long-term goals is to contribute to the growing legacy of Indian cinema. He expresses deep admiration for Bollywood filmmakers like Zoya Akhtar, S.S. Rajamouli, and Lijo Jose Pellissery and hopes to collaborate with them in the future. “Indian cinema has an extraordinary tradition of visual storytelling,” Patankar says. “I want to be a part of that evolution, to help it grow and reach new audiences worldwide.”
Looking ahead, Patankar also dreams of using his cinematography to shine a light on stories from his rural heritage. He envisions creating mini-documentaries that highlight the lives of small business owners in Bramhapuri, whose traditional livelihoods are slowly fading with modernization. “These stories deserve to be told,” he emphasizes. “They are the people I grew up with, and their experiences are rich and powerful.”
With his unique blend of Hollywood experience and a deep connection to his Indian roots, Mayur Patankar is well on his way to bridging the gap between Bollywood and Hollywood, creating stories that transcend cultural boundaries and resonate with audiences worldwide.