1497 is a groundbreaking brand dedicated to empowering and showcasing the talent of individuals with South Asian heritage in the American film and television industry. Our mission is to challenge the historical exclusion and underrepresentation of South Asians in mainstream media. The name 1497 pays homage to a significant year in South Asian history when the region, comprising countries like Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka, was free from colonization.

By reclaiming our collective ancestry, we aim to celebrate a time when our nations thrived independently, free from the yoke of colonizers. At 1497, we offer various services and platforms to uplift South Asian talent, including feature films, documentaries, and television productions. Our Features Lab nurtures emerging filmmakers, providing them with the resources and support needed to bring their visions to life.

To learn more about our work and our definition of South Asia, please visit our FAQ page. Join us on our journey to empower and amplify the voices of South Asian creators in the entertainment industry. Together, we can rewrite the narrative and foster a more inclusive and representative future