Sanjeev Sharma: Leading the way, how an award-winning filmmaker is shaping the minds at IIM
Award winning filmmaker Sanjeev Sharma is a man of vision with a rare human approach.
Sanjeev Sharma’s award-winning cinematic masterpiece, ‘Road To Reform’ is making history at IIM Raipur. Here is the story.
Some films entertain, some inspire—but ‘Road to Reform’ does both while reshaping the way we perceive leadership and transformation. Chronicling the powerful journey of Seema and Dinkar as they fight for redemption after incarceration, this groundbreaking film transcends storytelling to ignite meaningful change. Recently screened at IIM Raipur as part of Professor Mrunal Chavda’s innovative Management Through Films course, the film sparked deep discussions on empathy, second chances, and the power of narrative in leadership and management.
However, ‘Road to Reform’ is more than just a film—it’s a movement. Directed by acclaimed filmmaker Sanjeev Sharma, a recipient of three Limca Book of Records honors and the prestigious DG Commendation Roll, the film has already made history, first time a road has been renamed after a film - the road outside Jaipur Central Jail has ben renamed as 'Road To Reform' proving cinema’s ability to drive real-world impact.
‘Road to Reform’ - A Journey Forged in Adversity
Bringing Road to Reform to life was no ordinary feat. Filmed within a functioning prison and featuring real inmates as actors, the project overcame significant logistical and creative hurdles. Sharma describes the film’s journey as a reflection of its characters’ struggles—a testament to perseverance, strategic thinking, and unwavering resolve. These same qualities are at the core of effective leadership and management, making the film’s themes profoundly relevant to future leaders.
A Transformational Experience at IIM Raipur
At IIM Raipur, an institution committed to shaping visionary leaders, the screening became more than an academic exercise—it was an eye-opening exploration of leadership, ethics, and societal change. Students engaged with the film’s themes to examine critical management principles, including the role of empathy in leadership, the value of second chances in building resilient teams, and the power of creativity as a force for transformation.
Professor Mrunal Chavda, the mind behind the Management Through Films course, praised the film’s depth, noting how it dismantled stereotypes and challenged students to think beyond conventional leadership models. The discussions reinforced that management is not just about numbers and efficiency—it’s about understanding people, embracing change, and driving meaningful impact.
The Future of Leadership Through Storytelling
Reflecting on the event, Sanjeev Sharma remarked, “IIM Raipur’s forward-thinking approach to integrating cinema into leadership education is truly commendable. The screening of Road to Reform was not just about watching a film—it was a dialogue on resilience, empathy, and transformation. I deeply appreciate the institute’s commitment to developing leaders who think beyond traditional boundaries.”
As the credits rolled, one truth became evident: ‘Road to Reform’ is not just a cinematic achievement—it’s a call to action. Through its narrative, it delivers vital leadership lessons, emphasizing the power of compassion, the strength in vulnerability, and the courage to challenge the status quo. It reinforces the idea that leadership is not just about strategy but about driving meaningful human impact.
With its growing influence, Road to Reform is poised to continue reshaping perspectives on leadership, management, and social responsibility—one screening at a time.