SCREEN Unveils SCREEN Academy to Cultivate India’s Future Talent
The Indian Express Group, in collaboration with SCREEN, has unveiled the SCREEN Academy, a not-for-profit initiative dedicated to nurturing emerging talent in Indian cinema. This innovative program aims to empower aspiring filmmakers through education and mentorship, providing them with the necessary resources to succeed in the competitive film industry. With the support of notable industry figures and institutions, the Academy is set to make a significant impact on the future of filmmaking in India.
Empowering Future Filmmakers
SCREEN Academy is designed to identify and support the next generation of filmmakers by offering postgraduate fellowships to students who demonstrate exceptional storytelling potential but face financial barriers to pursuing formal film education. The initiative has garnered support from prominent figures in the film industry, including Cannes and Oscar winners like Guneet Monga and Resul Pookutty, as well as veteran screenwriter Anjum Rajabali. By collaborating with leading film institutes such as the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII) and Satyajit Ray Film and Television Institute, the Academy aims to create a robust ecosystem for aspiring filmmakers.
The fellowships will cover full financial support for postgraduate studies at these prestigious institutions, ensuring that talented individuals from diverse backgrounds can access quality education. The Academy plans to expand its reach across India, adding more film schools to its network in the future. This initiative not only addresses the financial challenges faced by aspiring filmmakers but also aims to enhance the overall quality of storytelling in Indian cinema.
Industry Support and Mentorship
In addition to financial assistance, SCREEN Academy fellows will benefit from an extensive mentorship program featuring some of India’s top studios and respected film professionals. These industry leaders will provide invaluable guidance through masterclasses, internships, and ongoing professional support. This mentorship is crucial for helping young filmmakers navigate the complexities of the film industry and develop their unique voices.
Dhiraj Singh, Director of the Film and Television Institute of India, expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration, stating that it will greatly benefit both students and the industry. Similarly, Samiran Dutta, Director of the Satyajit Ray institute, highlighted the importance of the fellowships in supporting talent from diverse and often underrepresented regions of India. The initiative aims to ensure that financial constraints do not hinder creativity and ambition, allowing aspiring filmmakers to pursue their dreams.
A Vision for the Future
Abhishek Lodha, the Founding Patron of the SCREEN Academy, emphasized the initiative’s role in enhancing India’s cultural landscape and its potential to position the country as a global leader in the creative arts. He noted that the Lodha Foundation is committed to supporting India’s progress towards becoming a developed nation by 2047, with films and creative arts being a vital component of this vision.
Anant Goenka, Executive Director of The Indian Express Group, described the Academy as a significant step towards institutionalizing excellence in the entertainment sector. He expressed confidence that the Academy will cultivate diverse and promising talent, providing them with both financial aid and access to industry resources. The selection of fellows will be overseen by a panel led by Anjum Rajabali, ensuring that the initiative identifies and supports the most deserving candidates.
As SCREEN Academy prepares to launch its inaugural fellowships in 2025, it stands poised to make a lasting impact on the Indian film industry, fostering a new generation of storytellers who will contribute to the rich tapestry of Indian cinema.
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