Nia Zera - Cinema

I began my career as a writer for Sudhinam, the early morning programme on Doordarshan Kendra, Thiruvananthapuram. I later wrote special episodes for Akashavani, Thiruvananthapuram, for a year, an experience that deepened my understanding of storytelling and public communication. From September 2018 to December 2024, I served as Programme Director for the Public Relations Division of the Finance Department, Government of Kerala. During this period, I conceptualised, coordinated, and produced a one hour daily live telecast that aired every day, including Sundays.

Over six years and four months, and with the support of an incredible workforce and crew, I handled a total of 2,314 live episodes, making it one of the longest continuous government communication broadcasts in the state. The role demanded writing and direction, strategic planning, concept development, live production management, and direct engagement with the public. In 2025, I was entrusted with overseeing the entire public relations operations of the programme, leading communication initiatives and public outreach on behalf of the Government of Kerala.

Following this chapter in public service, I resigned from my position to devote myself to creative practice full time. Alongside my broadcasting career, I have written around five screenplays for various production houses and theatre productions. I have had the privilege of collaborating with some of Malayalam cinema’s most distinguished filmmakers, including the late Lenin Rajendran, Joe, Sibi Malayil, and others. My experiences as a directorial assistant and screenwriter have significantly informed my academic research in Film and Media Studies, allowing me to explore a wide range of genres, from romantic comedies and science fiction to thrillers and socio-political narratives. Today, I continue to work across disciplines.