Bengaluru, September 11: Department of Journalism and Mass Communication, JAIN (Deemed-to-be University), one of the top-ranked private universities in India, proudly hosted Cinemates 3.0; On the occasion of National Cinema Day, the event stood to celebrate the creativity and storytelling, capturing the essence and ever-expanding horizons of Indian cinema. The event was graced by N.Vinayaka, Sandalwood director, actor & writer and Dr. Dinesh Nilkant, Pro-Vice Chancellor of JAIN (Deemed-to-be University), who offered invaluable insights into the art and craft of filmmaking. The highlight of Cinemates 3.0 was the intense inter-collegiate 48-hour short filmmaking challenge, in which participants from across India were tasked with crafting stories around the theme ‘Vṛtta -The Circle of Life.’
N. Vinayaka, renowned Kannada Film Director, Actor & Writer, highlighting the importance of cinema stated “Cinema is not just entertainment, it is documentation of our culture, language and generations.” Continuing his address, he insighted “what we do in mise-en-scène is set everything before the camera, and I feel the students here are preparing their own mise-en-scène for life.” He further emphasised, “the 48-hour filmmaking contest teach us not to wait for opportunities, but to create them. National Cinema Day should not be celebrated on just one day, but every day, because cinema educates, enlightens and records history.” Applauding the university and the platform he concluded “I am happy to see Jain University giving such opportunities because participation matters more than winning.”
Dr. Dinesh Nilkant, Pro-Vice Chancellor, JAIN (Deemed-to-be University), in his address contrasted the difference between cinema and circus with the remark, “What is the difference between cinema and circus? Circus is entertainment, cinema is an art. Circus is also an art, but then what happens in cinema, you have so many zones to work, you have the camera, you have the direction, you have people working, and a unit of almost 100 people every time they work for something or the other. Learning this art is very important. The students should make the world a classroom for themselves.
” Further highlighting the importance of cinema as a platform for communication and the unrecognised efforts that go into the making of the art, stating, “Cinema is not merely entertainment; it is an art that shapes how society learns, remembers, and communicates. From epics like the Ramayana to contemporary films, generations have understood stories through this medium. Behind every film lies immense effort, compromise, and teamwork, which are often unseen by the audience.” He further stressed on the relation between cinema and journalism students, asserting “For journalism students, mastering the language of cinema, camera, editing, sound, and storytelling is essential.”
Dr. Bhargavi D Hemmige, Head of the Department of Journalism and Mass Communication, commended the event and the challenge it provided, she remarked “Cinemates 3.0 gives the students a platform to think, create and express through cinema. The 48-hour challenge showcased the efforts put in by the teams, proving that storytelling has no limits”, Further, she emphasised, “Initiatives such as Cinemates provide an essential space for students to experiment, innovate and demonstrate their creative capabilities to a wider audience.”
The event gathered over 50 participants across multiple colleges in the country out of which 16 were shortlisted and Government Arts & Science College of Chennai stood victorious with their short film “Aruvazhi” and the professional category was taken by storm by AAG Production’s “The Future Killer”. Further adding to the remarkable cinematic experience was ‘Mise-en-scène’, a vibrant exhibition that highlighted the vast diversity and richness of Indian cinema.
Showcasing well-established production houses, the exhibition offered audiences a glimpse into the enduring legacy of Indian filmmaking. From Bollywood to Sandalwood and Tollywood, the showcase illuminated the rich line of storytelling across various film industries in India. On the occasion of National Cinema Day, cinephiles and aspiring filmmakers came together for a day filled with creativity, culture, and insightful discussions.
