Banker-Turned-Filmmaker Prasad Kadam Prepares to Expand His Acclaimed Short Happy Birthday into a Feature Film

From banking halls to film sets, Prasad Kadam’s journey has been nothing short of remarkable. Having carved his own space as a director in the worlds of music videos and short films, he is now gearing up to make the much-awaited leap into feature filmmaking. His debut project will be a full-length adaptation of his critically acclaimed short film Happy Birthday, a moving story that starred veteran actor Anupam Kher alongside Aahana Kumra.

Over the past few years, Kadam has helmed music videos for T-Series and collaborated with well-known actors like Vivek Oberoi, Rohit Roy, Adah Sharma, and Aahana Kumra. But it was Happy Birthday that turned the spotlight on him as a filmmaker with vision and depth. Released two years ago, the short film made waves internationally, bagging the Best Film award at the New York International Film Festival and earning Anupam Kher the Best Actor trophy. Its resonance was further solidified when it secured a nomination at the prestigious Filmfare OTT Awards.

Speaking about this milestone, Kadam revealed, “Currently, I’m working on my debut feature film, an adaptation of my own short Happy Birthday. It’s a story that has lived with me for a long time, and the audience response convinced me that it deserves to be told on a larger canvas.”

For Kadam, the highlight of the original film was undoubtedly his collaboration with Anupam Kher, a name synonymous with excellence in Indian cinema. With admiration in his tone, he recalled, “Working with Anupam Kher was an absolute privilege. The best thing about him as an actor is the way he brings truth and depth to every single moment, no matter how small. I was amazed by his punctuality and professionalism. On set, he carries a rare mix of discipline and warmth, making the whole team feel valued. His craft, humility, and commitment are a masterclass in themselves.”

The upcoming feature version of Happy Birthday promises to retain the soul of the original while expanding its emotional arcs and visual scope. While Kadam has remained tight-lipped about further casting details, industry buzz suggests that the project will blend artistic integrity with mainstream appeal—much like the short film did.

For a filmmaker who transitioned from a corporate banking job to the unpredictable lanes of cinema, this moment feels both surreal and earned. Kadam’s journey embodies a rare blend of courage, creativity, and conviction—qualities that are now poised to shine brighter in his feature debut.

As audiences await the transformation of Happy Birthday into a full-fledged cinematic experience, one thing is certain: Prasad Kadam is a storyteller with both heart and craft, ready to make his mark on the big screen.