4 minute read
Kunal Raj-a video editor, film director, VFX compositor and sound designer.
Kunal Raj is a very well-known name in the field of films and entertainment in Goa. Currently residing in Goa's commercial capital Margao, Kunal dons multiple hats. He is a video editor, film and video director, VFX compositor, and sound designer. He also runs his own film production studio called KRF Media, based in Fatorda, Margao. He is also the Managing Director of 3VINERS / 3XP, a production house that creates short films and the host of the popular 3XP podcast, which covers the journeys of several creators from different parts of Goa.
Diverse Beginnings
As a child, Kunal aspired to become a corporate business head. He later also had a strong desire to get into the fascinating world of computers. However, after completing his schooling, he pursued a diploma in Mechanical Engineering and then kicked off his professional journey at Bosch Verna, where he served as a Quality Engineer for five years. During those five years, he worked alongside several experienced professionals and gained a lot of knowledge and professional expertise.
Venturing into the World of Creativity
In 2017, Kunal gave up his well-paying position at Bosch to pursue his passion for video content creation. He joined hands with two of his friends to create the 3ViNERS, a platform for creating engaging and entertaining videos. His foray into content creation was fuelled by a love for editing and a desire to share compelling stories. As the audience of 3ViNERS grew, so did the scope of Kunal's creative endeavours. He soon got approached to shoot a music video and a short film. The first payment which he received for his work made Kunal realise that he could actually make a living through the work he was doing - work that he loved doing and was passionate about.
In the year 2019, Kunal started KRF Media, a platform that undertakes slick VFX-related work for clients across the globe. As years passed, Kunal's journey expanded into filmmaking, directing, VFX composition, and sound design. He began collaborating on co-productions in India, the U.S.A., Kazakhstan, and Turkey.
In 2021, Kunal started the 3XP Podcast, an infotainment show which shines a spotlight on the lives of various Goans artists, creators and other well-known individuals. The show aims to inspire viewers in Goa and beyond through the amazing journeys of these individuals who appear on the show.
Recognition and Milestones
Kunal's prowess in the realm of VFX is evident through the recognition he holds as a Level 2 - 2rated VFX seller on Fiverr, with over 600+ Five-star ratings. His recent short film, which is Goa’s first VFX Game short film, also earned a spot in a prestigious Kolkata magazine called Kalakari. He is also credited on platforms like IMDb for his contributions to various web series and films, showcasing the global impact of his creative vision.
Challenges Faced
Like any other creative person, Kunal too experiences challenges such as time management and creative blocks while pursuing his craft. However, he deals with the issue of time management by blocking time slots and using apps like Google Calendar, Notion, and Trello to ensure that all his projects are progressing as per schedule and can be completed on time. He also manages the issue of facing creative blocks by taking breaks from work and spending some time indulging in activities that help in de-stressing and rejuvenating himself.
Future Aspirations
Looking ahead, Kunal envisions 3XP Podcast becoming the top Goan podcast in terms of quality and content. Similarly, he aims to position KRF Media as the premier VFX media studio from Goa, reaching new heights with collaborations across the nation. Dreaming big, Kunal hopes to be a significant part of a feature film or even a direct one someday.
Message to Aspiring Creators
In a heartfelt message to young creators, Kunal Raj encourages taking chances and emphasises the importance of upskilling oneself. Drawing from his own experience, he advocates for utilising postwork hours to hone skills, believing that a future bright with possibilities awaits those with a dedication to self-improvement.
Kunal Raj's journey is an inspiring narrative of transformation, showcasing the unlimited potential that lies in following one's passions and embracing the world of creativity. From a quality engineer to a multifaceted creator and entrepreneur, Kunal Raj is undoubtedly leaving an indelible mark on the landscape of content creation in Goa and beyond.
