Asmita Mahire-Singh Brings Lived Experience and Workplace Equity Lens to Resisting Casteism in Australia
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Melbourne-based HR and technology professional appears in Dr Vikrant Kishore’s documentary screening at Melbourne Documentary Film Festival
Melbourne, 30 June 2026
Asmita Mahire-Singh, a Melbourne-based Manager in People Systems, is a key contributor in Resisting Casteism in Australia, a documentary by filmmaker, journalist and academic Dr Vikrant Kishore. The film will screen at the Melbourne Documentary Film Festival on Sunday, 19 July 2026, at 12:15 pm at Cinema Nova, Melbourne, followed by a Q&A with the director and contributors.
Asmita works at the intersection of human resources and technology, with a focus on equity and social justice. Her participation in the documentary reflects her engagement with questions of caste discrimination and its presence in South Asian diaspora communities in Australia.
She first became involved with the film through community engagement and through fellow contributor Dr Rupali Bhamare, who introduced her to Dr Kishore during earlier discussions and public conversations on caste and equality.
Speaking about her decision to take part, Asmita said:
“I chose to be part of the documentary because I strongly believe in its potential to create a positive impact and bring greater awareness to caste discrimination within the South East Asian diaspora.”
For Asmita, the documentary offered an opportunity to speak about both personal experience and wider community realities.
“This is a meaningful opportunity to share my own story and that of my community, while contributing to a film that can positively impact awareness,” she said.
Reflecting on the process of participation, she noted how the conversations during filming prompted reflection on family history and intergenerational experience.
“While answering interview questions and reflecting on my family’s journey, I felt a strong sense of appreciation for the work of those who came before me. My grandparents and parents have done a lot for the community. It also made me pause and think about how I can contribute and carry that legacy forward.”
Asmita hopes the documentary will reach audiences who may not yet be aware that caste-based discrimination continues to be experienced in diaspora settings.
“Many people may not even be aware that such discrimination exists. My hope is that this film brings it into the light and sparks greater awareness, understanding and dialogue.”
She also emphasises the need for open conversation and clear recognition of discrimination when it occurs.
“I hope to foster open and honest conversations about caste, and to unequivocally condemn this form of discrimination.”
Dr Vikrant Kishore said Asmita’s contribution brings an important workplace and community perspective into the documentary’s wider conversation.
“Asmita’s reflections connect everyday professional life with questions of equity, belonging and social responsibility. Her voice adds clarity to how caste-based assumptions can appear in contemporary settings.”
Resisting Casteism in Australia follows a 3,500-kilometre journey through Melbourne, Sydney, Newcastle and Coffs Harbour, bringing together Indian-Australian contributors who reflect on caste, migration, identity and belonging. The film uses personal testimony and reflection to examine how caste-based discrimination may continue in everyday life after migration.
Screening Details
Film: Resisting Casteism in Australia
Director: Dr Vikrant Kishore
Festival: Melbourne Documentary Film Festival
Date: Sunday, 19 July 2026
Time: 12:15 pm
Venue: Cinema Nova, Melbourne
Running Time: 61 minutes
Language: English
Classification: E15+
Film Website: https://www.vikrantkishore.com/resistingcasteism
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