Ashwini Malik, born in 1969, is a Mumbai-based screenwriter, director, and professor who has contributed significantly to Indian cinema. He studied at Delhi University before pursuing film studies at the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII), Pune. His early short film The Waiter in Slow Motion was screened at the Clermont-Ferrand International Short Film Festival, marking his entry into the global film circuit.
Malik is best known for writing films such as Bas Ek Pal, Sorry Bhai, I Am, Clever and Lonely, Monophobia, Maali, and Pine Cone. His works often explore complex human emotions and relationships, earning him recognition in independent and parallel cinema. Clever and Lonely in particular received several accolades, showcasing his ability to craft nuanced narratives.
In addition to his creative work, Ashwini Malik is a professor at Whistling Woods International, where he trains aspiring screenwriters and conducts workshops. His dual role as a filmmaker and educator has made him an influential figure in shaping the next generation of Indian storytellers. Malik continues to balance his academic responsibilities with writing and directing, contributing to both mainstream and independent film projects.