-Jasmeet Singh
The eagerly anticipated awards ceremony of CineMaestro: Shaping Future Filmmakers-Take 5 unfolded in a dazzling spectacle. This year’s event witnessed enthusiastic participation from 20 schools, all converging at Chitkara International School for an immersive journey into the world of cinema under the esteemed banner of CineMaestro.
CineMaestro, powered by the pioneering social enterprise Cinevidya, aims to ignite and cultivate the filmmaking prowess of budding talents across the nation. Spearheaded by the renowned cinematographer and producer, Mr. Amitabha Singh, this visionary initiative strives to uncover young cinematic geniuses and foster the production of children’s cinema on a national scale. During the workshop held at Chitkara International School, Mr. Amitabha Singh and Mr. Pushkar Singh Bisht, experts in cinematography, led students through camera techniques and lighting. Ms. Sweety Ruhel, specializing in screen acting, inspired on-screen performances. Ms. Santwana Bayaskar, a maestro in sound design, shared insights on sound recording and design. Ms. Kalyani Sawadkar empowered students with choreography skills to infuse emotion and rhythm into storytelling through dance.
The film screening and mega film event commenced with a buzz of anticipation as students and guests eagerly awaited the showcase of diverse cinematic creations. Following the screening, attendees were treated to an engaging interaction session with the esteemed chief guest of the event Mr. Jitendra Kumar, where insightful discussions on the nuances of filmmaking and storytelling unfolded. Mr. Kumar, celebrated for his notable roles in TVF Pitchers, Kota Factory, Panchayat, and Shubh Mangal Zyada Saavdhan, infused the event with his dynamic essence, adding a touch of inspiration and distinction to the occasion. The event reached its crescendo with the much-anticipated award ceremony, where outstanding talents were recognized and celebrated for their contributions to the world of cinema.
The highlight of the event was the grand screening of student-created films from diverse schools held at the prestigious auditorium of Chitkara International School. These films, spanning across various genres including horror, fiction, motivational, non-fiction, drama, and more, served as a testament to the creativity and skills acquired by the students during the workshop, captivating the audience with their innovative storytelling and captivating visuals.
Throughout the screening, Mr. Amitabha Singh & Mr Jitendra Kumar, with their discerning eye for detail, engaged the students with insightful questions, delving into their inspirations, techniques, and challenges faced during the filmmaking process. Their interaction encouraged the students to reflect on their journey and share their unique perspectives.
Following the screenings, anticipation reached its peak as the winners were announced amidst thunderous applause from the audience. The awards, spanning categories such as
Best Director, Best Film, Best Cinematography, Best Choreography, Best Film Editing, Best Sound Design, Best Actor and Best Screenwriting, recognised the outstanding achievements of the students. Each winner was bestowed with a trophy and a certificate of appreciation, symbolising their dedication and talent.
In his address, Mr Jitendra Kumar lauded the students’ creativity and emphasised the significance of such initiatives in nurturing young talent and fostering artistic expression for social change.
Dr. Niyati Chitkara, Director of Chitkara International School, commended the students’ exceptional talent and dedication, expressing pride in their accomplishments and highlighting the transformative power of filmmaking as a medium of expression.
CineMaestro: Shaping Future Filmmakers -Take 5 was not just an event; it was a celebration of talent, creativity, and innovation, underscoring the profound impact of education and the arts in shaping the future of young filmmakers. As the curtains draw on this remarkable event, the journey continues for these budding talents, poised to make their mark on the world stage.
- Best Actor: A Shade Darker: Bhavan Vidyalaya, Panchkula
- Best Director: Apne Liye: Gurukul Global School
- Best Choreography:A Shade Darker: Bhavan Vidyalaya, Panchkula
- Best Film Editing: Vibhedan: Sri Guru Harkrishan Model Sr Sec School, Chandigarh
- Best Sound Design: The Guiding Light: Gian Jyoti Global School, Mohali
- Best Cinematography: Pakshpaat: St Soldier’s Int Convent School,
- Best Screenwriting: Dark Secret: Saupin’s School, Chandigarh
- Best Film : Voices in my Head: Bhavan Vidyalaya Chandigarh
- Special Mention : The Last Leaf: Learning Paths School, Mohali
- Special Mention : Tourism: Delhi Public School
- Special Mention : Draama Queen: St Kabir Public School
- Special Mention : Finding Tomorrow: Chitkara International School