Director's Profile

Singapore filmmaker Harva Raj, director of the gripping vigilante thriller Justice Devil, has been steadily building a name for himself in Singapore's independent film scene. Known for his cinematic eye and deeply personal storytelling, Raj’s path to the director’s chair began over a decade ago with a foundation rooted in socially conscious filmmaking and artistic experimentation. His latest feature, Justice Devil, starring Ris Low, marks a powerful evolution in his career, combining raw emotion with bold narrative style.

Early Foundations at NAFA

Harva Raj’s filmmaking journey began during his time at the Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts (NAFA), where he pursued a Diploma in Design and Media with a specialization in Video Production. During his course of study, he wrote, directed, and produced three notable student short films: 'Dream Home', 'The Board Room', and 'Here, Now'. Each project explored a different facet of Singaporean life, showcasing Raj’s early commitment to reflecting real social issues through the lens of storytelling.

His 2010 short film 'Dream Home', which he produced and directed as a student, tackled the increasingly urgent issue of housing price fluctuations in Singapore. A striking reflection on economic pressure and urban transformation, 'Dream Home' stood out for its realism and mature visual language, setting the tone for Raj’s future as a socially engaged filmmaker.

In addition, Harva Raj’s 2012 student documentary short film Here, Now earned recognition for its empathetic and insightful exploration of Singapore’s ageing population. The film received the Bronze Award at the ICON Awards, an annual in-house competition organized by the Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts (NAFA) to celebrate excellence in the creative arts. Judged by a panel of industry professionals from Singapore’s design, fashion, and film sectors, the award highlighted the documentary’s powerful subject matter and professional execution—further establishing Raj’s reputation as a promising young filmmaker with a keen eye for socially relevant storytelling.

Harva Raj’s 2010 student short film, Dream Home, capturing the emotional toll of Singapore’s rising housing prices through the eyes of an everyday family.

Harva Raj’s 2012 student short film 'The Board Room' delves into the complex intersection of ambition, corporate ethics, and the unspoken hierarchies that influence decision-making behind closed doors. Set within the polished yet high-stakes environment of a corporate boardroom, the film unpacks how personal agendas and silent power struggles shape outcomes far beyond what is seen on the surface.

Harva Raj’s 2012 student documentary short film 'Here, Now', explores the realities of Singapore’s ageing population with empathy and insight. The film earned the Bronze Award at the ICON Awards, a competition organized by the Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts (NAFA) in March 2012 to recognize outstanding student work across the creative disciplines.

A behind-the-scenes look at Harva Raj working on a student film set, capturing his hands-on approach to storytelling from the very beginning.

Harva Raj in action during his formative years as a film student, honing his craft behind the camera.

On set of Dream Home (2010): Harva Raj works closely with the cast to bring the story’s emotional core to life, exploring the impact of Singapore’s rising housing prices.

NAFA Graduation

Harva Raj at his NAFA graduation ceremony, marking the completion of his Diploma in Design and Media. This milestone represents the early chapters of his filmmaking journey—one rooted in passion, perseverance, and a commitment to storytelling with purpose.

Harva Raj pictured at his NAFA graduation.

A proud moment for Harva Raj as he graduates from NAFA, celebrating years of creative exploration and hands-on filmmaking training.

University of Sunderland Years: Honing Vision, Expanding Perspective

Harva Raj continued his academic and creative development by completing a Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Media, Culture and Communications from the University of Sunderland. The degree deepened his critical understanding of media’s cultural impact and sharpened his ability to tell stories that resonate both locally and globally. This academic foundation enriched his filmmaking practice, blending theory with a strong sense of narrative purpose.

Harva Raj is presented with his BA (Hons) Degree in Media, Culture, and Communications by Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic), Professor Michael Young, at the University of Sunderland graduation ceremony.

A group photo from the University of Sunderland graduation, featuring guest of honor His Excellency Scott Wightman CMG, British High Commissioner to Singapore.

Harva Raj celebrates his graduation alongside fellow coursemates in a group photo marking the completion of their studies at the University of Sunderland.

Spotlight at The Substation’s First Take

In August 2011, Harva Raj was invited to showcase his short film 'Dream Home', at The Substation’s First Take, a long-running monthly event dedicated to highlighting emerging filmmakers in Singapore. As the country's first independent contemporary arts centre, The Substation has long been a bastion for experimentation and innovation in the arts.

First Take is especially known for curating bold, independent short films, documentaries, and experimental works by local and Asian talents. Raj’s inclusion in this lineup placed him among the ranks of up-and-coming filmmakers pushing creative boundaries in the region, and connected his work to a broader network of independent cinema.

Harva Raj at The Substation’s First Take, a platform dedicated to emerging voices in Singapore’s independent film scene.

During The Substation’s First Take, Harva Raj discusses the creative and social themes behind his short film 'Dream Home'.

Harva Raj shares insights into the making of 'Dream Home', during a post-screening session at The Substation’s First Take.

Harva Raj attending The Substation’s First Take, where filmmaker Jerrold Chong also presented his work. Filmmaker Jerrold Chong would later go on to co-found the acclaimed Singapore animation studio, Finding Pictures.

Justice Devil: A Decade in the Making

All of these experiences culminated in Raj’s ambitious debut feature, Justice Devil, a dark, emotionally charged thriller starring Ris Low. The film follows a mother’s descent into Singapore’s criminal underworld as she seeks justice for her daughter’s tragic death. A bold combination of gritty realism and psychological depth, Justice Devil represents Raj’s most personal and complex work to date.

Notably, Raj not only directed the film but also composed its original score, adding an additional layer of emotional resonance and creative authorship. His years of hands-on filmmaking, from student documentaries to feature-length storytelling, have forged a distinct voice — one rooted in empathy, cultural awareness, and an unflinching look at society’s undercurrents.

Director Harva Raj directing lead actress Ris Low during the filming of a promotional video for Justice Devil.

Behind the scenes: Harva Raj directs Ris Low during the production of a promotional segment for Justice Devil.

Harva Raj directing actress Samantha Chong on set. Chong would later win Best Supporting Actress at both the Hollywood Blood Horror Festival (Los Angeles, USA) and the Champs-Élysées Film Awards (Paris, France).

Harva Raj directing Ris Low on location for Justice Devil, capturing a key moment in the film’s emotional journey.

Harva Raj directing a scene from Justice Devil, a debut feature shaped by years of development and storytelling craft.

On set with Harva Raj as he directs a sequence from Justice Devil, blending cinematic intensity with psychological depth.

Harva Raj pictured directing Justice Devil, with cast members Michael Chua and Daniel Tan beside him during filming.

Bangkok Movie Awards Gala 2025

Justice Devil director Harva Raj was invited to attend the Bangkok Movie Awards Gala 2025, where he had the opportunity to present his debut feature film, Justice Devil, among a global community of independent filmmakers. The event served as a platform for Raj to reflect on the deeply personal journey behind the making of the film — a project years in the making. From writing and directing to composing the entire original score, Justice Devil stands as a testament to his multifaceted artistry and unwavering commitment to storytelling.

Bangkok Movie Awards Gala 2025.

Justice Devil director Harva Raj at Bangkok Movie Awards Gala 2025.

At the Bangkok Movie Awards Gala 2025, Justice Devil director Harva Raj offered insights into the creative and emotional journey behind his debut feature. From crafting the screenplay to directing and composing the original score, Raj detailed the challenges and triumphs that shaped the film’s development over several years.

Justice Devil director Harva Raj at Bangkok Movie Awards Gala 2025.

Justice Devil director Harva Raj at the Bangkok Movie Awards Gala 2025, pictured alongside fellow Singapore filmmakers Derrick Lui (Oversteer,2024) and Kyle Ong (Singapore's Little Thailand, 2024).

Justice Devil director Harva Raj at Bangkok Movie Awards Gala 2025 with Bangkok Society of Film Critics’ Award (Narrative Feature).

Bangkok Society of Film Critics’ Award (Narrative Feature) for Justice Devil.

Awards and Accolades for Harva Raj

Over the years, Harva Raj’s dedication to storytelling, cinematic craft, and socially resonant themes has been recognized across various platforms. From early recognition during his student years to prestigious awards at global independent film festivals, each accolade reflects a milestone in his creative journey.

This section highlights the major awards presented to Harva Raj for his debut feature film Justice Devil. These include honors for Best Feature Film, Best First-Time Director, Best Thriller, Best Original Score, and recognitions for Best Music Director and Emerging Filmmaker. Collectively, these awards affirm the film’s artistic achievement and Harva Raj’s multifaceted talent as both a director and composer.

The certificates and accolades displayed below serve as a record of these significant accomplishments and Justice Devil’s impact on the international independent film community.

Director Harva Raj with Justice Devil cast members Jullius Eddy, Ernest Seah, Michael Chua, Daniel Chen, holding the award trophy from the Hollywood Blood Horror Film Festival.

Best Feature awarded by Hollywood Blood Horror Festival (Los Angeles, USA).

Best First Time Director (Harva Raj), awarded by Hollywood Blood Horror Festival (Los Angeles, USA).

Best Thriller awarded by Miami International Gold Awards (Miami,USA).

Best Original Score (Harva Raj), awarded by Miami International Gold Awards (Miami,USA).

Official Selection and Winner for Best Music Director (Harva Raj), awarded by Indie Cine Tube Awards (Bengal, India).

Official Selection and Winner for the Best Emerging Filmmaker (Harva Raj), awarded by International Motion Picture Awards (Ontario, Canada).

Service and Duty: National Service Journey

In addition to his work as a filmmaker, Harva Raj has also served with dedication and discipline as part of Singapore’s National Service. His time in service reflects a deep sense of responsibility and commitment to the nation—values that continue to shape his character and creative approach. The photos below were taken during the Stand Down Parade with 745 Guards (3rd Guards, 12th Mono Intake), marking a meaningful chapter in his personal journey beyond the world of film.