Mysore/Mysuru: A two-day National-level Short Film Festival “Cinerama – 2023” was organised by the Department of Visual Communication, Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham, Mysuru Campus, recently.

Renowned Actor, lyricist and producer Daali Dhananjaya, who was the chief guest at the valedictory of the event, presented the awards to the winners of various competitions.

Speaking on the occasion Daali Dhananjaya said that the realm of cinema offers a plethora of possibilities. Success is contingent upon both one’s aptitude and diligence. Aspiring individuals should capitalise on the diverse opportunities presented to them within the film industry.

“Dwelling on the notion of needing a certain disposition will result in missing out on valuable chances. It is crucial to seize every opportunity to showcase our capabilities and perform to the best of our abilities,” he said and added that his career is an illustration and each role he has portrayed has laid a strong foundation for his current success.

The actor imparted guidance to aspiring individuals interested in film production, emphasising how technological advancements greatly benefit present-day students. Dhananjaya highlighted how mobile phones have widened the scope and can serve as a sturdy foundation for producing major films.

Top 7 short films were screened during the Fest. The Fest had an overwhelming response with as many as 50 entries from various States of over 40 institutions and Universities took part in the Fest. The winners were awarded certificates, mementos and cash prize.

Vaishali Hanumath and Hanumanth, Proprietors of DRC Cinemas, were the guests of honour. award-winning lens-based artist, musician and actor K.J. Pavan, who was also a jury member, and the sponsors of the Fest were felicitated on the occasion.

The technical session on ‘Why Film Criticism Matters in the Age of Streaming’ by Film Journalist and critic from Film Companion, Mumbai, Suchin Mehrotra and ‘Film Marketing and Promotions’ by Stories Social Founder Dr. Sangeetha Janachandran was also organised during the fest.

Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham Principal Dr. G. Ravindranath presided. Vidyapeetham Director Dr. Anantaananda Chaitanya, Department of Visual Communication Chairperson Dr. Moulya Baladi and others were present on the occasion. National Award-Winning Film Director Dr. Nagathihalli Chandrashekar had inaugurated the Film Festival on the previous day with veteran actor and theatre director Mandya Ramesh as the chief guest.

Award Winners

Best Short Film: Sanjai Chandrasekaran’s Canvas (Tamil) – first prize (Rs. 10,000 cash prize); Pranav Krishnan’s Across (Malayalam) – second prize (Rs. 7,000); Sampath Kumar Rai’s Ilibonu (Kannada) – third prize (Rs. 5,000 ).

Best Editor: Sriram Ramaswamy for Canvas (Tamil).

Best Director: Sanjai Chandrasekaran for Canvas (Tamil).

Best Cinematographer: Karthik Sippy for Canvas (Tamil).

Best Actor: Adarsh Krishnadas for Across (Malayalam).

Best Actress: Sneha Reji for Cheryl (Malayalam).

Best Mobile Short Film: Rithik Nair’s Two Coconuts – first (Rs. 5,000); Adithya Yaligar’s Heal Within – second (Rs. 3,000).

Separate category of Amrita Awards was given to the students of the Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham Mysuru Campus to encourage and keep the spirit of film-making.