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‘Hello Dad’ honored at Times Square for sustainable filmmaking
The film follows the story of a grieving young woman, who finds herself at a crossroads as she still struggles to navigate life years after her father's death
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Staff Reporter - Fri, 24, Apr 2026
- 12:58 EDT
- 95
Filmmaker Neha Lohia (second from right) and the film's cast receiving the award. / Dikshant, Maya DuBose, Rob Klein, Ardita
Indian American Filmmaker Neha Lohia’s short film Hello Dad was recognized for sustainable filmmaking at the Earth Day celebration in Times Square, highlighting the intersection of cinema, environmental consciousness, and personal storytelling.
Lohia appeared on stage with lead actors Tirlok Malik and Ankita Makwana as the film was honored for its solar-powered production approach and environmentally conscious methods.
At its core, Hello Dad explores themes of memory, loss, and human connection. The project was created with a minimal production footprint, using solar-powered equipment and a restrained approach to resources, reflecting a broader shift in the film industry toward sustainable practices.
“I come from India, where we call Mother Earth Dharti Maa. Dharti means she who holds, and it is our conscious responsibility to be as weightless as possible. As a filmmaker, I try to bring the same care to how a film is made as I do to the story itself,” Lohia said, emphasizing the importance of aligning storytelling with sustainable production.
The film has also received the Environmental Media Association’s Green Seal, recognizing its eco-friendly production practices.
Currently on the international film festival circuit, Hello Dad continues to gain attention for both its emotional narrative and its commitment to sustainability, as filmmakers increasingly explore ways to reduce environmental impact while deepening storytelling.
“This film holds a lot of personal memory and grief. I invite everyone to take a moment today to reach out to someone they love. Call your parents, your children, someone close to you, and tell them you love them. Thank them for sharing this time on Earth with you. This moment matters, because you never know when it may be the last hello, and what remains are the memories we carry forward that can get heavy if left unexpressed," the NY-based filmmaker said.
The Earth Day event at Times Square produced by Paul Sladkus of Good News Corporation, brought together leaders from environmental advocacy, arts, and public life. This year’s program was presented in tribute to the Jane Goodall Foundation and featured participation from global figures including Stevie Wonder, Oprah Winfrey, Leonardo DiCaprio, and Shakira.
Discover more at New India Abroad.
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