Khanduri is an Indian Filmmaker, Screenwriter who is known for his novel cinematic style and unique screenplay executions. Born in a Hindu affluent family, he hails originally from majestic hills of Uttarakhand. He is brought up in New Delhi and did his schooling from Blue Bells International School and graduated from Delhi University in Electronics. Geared up to be an Engineer, Khanduri found his passion for media and left all plans to intensively join journalism, ad-films to finally become a filmmaker. He started his career with prominent news channel, TV18 as investigative correspondent. Bearing a deep passion for special effects, he eventually arrived at the top VFX company, Crest Communication in Mumbai city. It was during this period he developed interest in filmmaking and his first breakthrough came as second assistant Director with prolific filmmaker Subhash Ghai in the movie Taal. His second movie was with auteur filmmaker Kundan Shah on film Dil Hai Tumhara as a Chief Associate Director.
Filmography
Khanduri debuted in Bollywood with a sleeper hit Ek Chalis Ki Last Local an independent low budget one night roller coaster. Besides Director he was also the screenwriter of the film. The film was produced by Quartet Films which was later presented by Bharat Shah. The movie starsAbhay Deol & Neha Dhupia along with Nawazuddin Siddiqui in the lead role and 80% new cast. The film though a small release went on to garner accolades and became a DVD cult with youngsters. His second film Kismet Love Paisa Dilli a pacy one night satire on corruption featured Vivek Oberoi, Malika Sherawat and Ashutosh Rana in lead roles. The film got an average response at box office due to release issues but Khanduri received international awards for its unique screenplay and direction. Also Khanduri has done "GUMRAH" a youth based crime series as Special Episodes Director & the popular web show "HOSTAGES" starring Ronit Roy and Tisca Chopra as Second Director.
Career
Arriving with his dark comic thriller Ek Chalis Ki Last Local Sanjay Khanduri marks his presence in Hindi independent cinema as a writer and director reflecting his unique potential. The film won high accolades from masses and critics for its innovative concept and screenplay. The film encapsulates the protagonist's bizarre night journey after missing his train till catching another, 2.5 hrs later, in 2.5 hrs of screen time. His second film Kismet Love Paisa Dilli though got international recognitions but did not fare that well in the country. Khandduri is now making a biopic on a martyr of 1962 Indo-China war, in support with Indian Army for Abundantia Entertainment.
Awards
"2010: Winner of 'Silver Palm Award' For 'Excellence in Cinema' at Mexico International Film Festival for his debut film Ek Chalis Ki Last Local.
"Lion's best debutant director award for his first Hindi commercial film in India Ek Chalis Ki Last Local.
