Renuka Shahane's Loop Line: A Groundbreaking Animated Short Film
In India, animation has often been linked to advertisements, children's shows, or mythological narratives. Shahane emphasizes, “Animation is a compelling medium for storytelling that transcends age.” She points out that while Indian animators are highly skilled and sought after by Hollywood, the domestic market for animation remains narrowly focused. Despite the challenges of high production costs and limited platforms for short films in India, she opted to express her narrative through animation. “I was aware that it might not find a wide audience, but the story deserved to be told. Creating Loop Line was a liberating experience,” she shares.
A Relatable Narrative A Story Rooted in the Everyday
Set against the backdrop of Mumbai, Loop Line tells the story of a middle-class housewife trapped in a monotonous routine of household chores and a controlling husband. Her only escape is her rich imagination, which takes a darkly humorous turn following a hurtful comment from her husband’s friends. Shahane’s insightful and empathetic storytelling has struck a chord with audiences worldwide. “The response has been incredible,” she reveals. “It’s a story deeply rooted in local culture, yet it resonates with people everywhere.”
Global Acclaim Recognition Across the Globe
Loop Line has had a remarkable festival journey. In addition to its win in Bengaluru, it secured the Best Animation Film and Best Story awards at the Mumbai Short and Documentary Film Festival 2025 and received an Honorary Mention at the Tasveer South Asian Film Festival 2024. The film was also featured at the MONSTRA — Lisbon Animation Festival 2025 and recently screened at the Dharamshala International Film Festival (DIFF) 2025. “DIFF is one of the most well-curated festivals in the country, and it’s a significant honor for my team and me to have Loop Line showcased there,” Shahane expressed.
A Passionate Journey A Journey of Passion
From her early acting roles in Lifeline (1980) and assisting Vijaya Mehta to directing her first Marathi film Rita and Netflix’s Tribhanga featuring Kajol, Renuka has always had a passion for directing. “Direction has always been my true love,” she states. “Although Surabhi and Hum Aapke Hain Koun..! received immense love, my heart has always been in direction.” Loop Line embodies this passion. She financed the entire project herself, and as it approaches Oscar consideration, she feels ecstatic. “It’s the first Marathi animation to make it to the Oscars long list, which is a reward in itself. It’s heartwarming to see a film about a housewife’s life gain appreciation globally.” While the Oscars process requires significant lobbying and funding, Renuka is taking it one step at a time, saying, “I have invested all my resources into making and promoting Loop Line at festivals. Now, I hope the Academy jury recognizes its value and it makes it to the Short List and nominations; there are many dreams to chase.”
Future Endeavors Looking Ahead
Currently, Shahane is working on a Marathi feature that addresses social prejudices, alongside a Hindi black comedy and another uplifting animated short. On a personal note, she credits her husband, actor Ashutosh Rana, for being her unwavering support. “My laughter never ceases around him. My fulfilling family life fuels my creativity.”
With Loop Line, Renuka Shahane demonstrates that narratives grounded in everyday Indian experiences can resonate universally. It serves as a poignant reminder that impactful art finds its audience, irrespective of the medium or market.