By OUR STAFF REPORTER
Dehradun, 25 May: The week-long public outreach campaign organised by ‘Sanskar Bharati’ in collaboration with folk institutions and artists concluded with a symposium on “Folk Culture and Contemporary Relevance in Uttarakhandi Cinema” held with filmmakers from Uttarakhand.
The event was inaugurated at the Sangh office on Tilak Road, here, by Cantt MLA Savita Kapoor, veteran theatre artist and film critic Shreesh Dobhal, Sanskar Bharati Uttarakhand’s Nishant Panwar, Dr Ashish Sharma, and others, through the traditional lamp-lighting ceremony and the organisational anthem, in the presence of various filmmakers of the state.
During the programme, filmmakers associated with Uttarakhand’s film industry emphasised the importance of promoting folk culture and national issues through regional cinema. They delivered lectures on the necessity of using films to raise awareness among the younger generation about the state’s and the nation’s glorious cultural heritage, keeping in mind the audience’s interests.
Chairing the event, Cantt MLA Savita Kapoor stated that cinema has the power to influence the lifestyle, food habits, attire, and customs of the general public—consciously or subconsciously. Therefore, cinema can serve as a powerful medium to bring the region’s folk culture to the masses so that future generations can connect with their proud traditions and heritage.
Jaydev Bhattacharya, a graduate of the Pune Film Institute, advised young filmmakers to focus on the creative aspects while forming efficient management teams to handle the production responsibilities effectively.
Actor Badrish Chhabra said that instead of focusing on delivering grand ideals, filmmakers should incorporate small values and cultural practices in their films—such as planting a tree on a birthday or gifting a plant instead of a bouquet. Such gestures are sure to leave a positive impact on viewers’ minds.
Dean of Doon Film School, SR Mukesh mentioned that some of their students have created documentary films on the cultural heritage of their regions, and these have been selected for film festivals. They encourage students to connect with the essence of their land, which brings originality to their work and increases its appeal.
On the occasion, advocate and actor Anuj Pandit shared that he always tries to ensure that the projects he acts in incorporate moral and human values, and he has often found success in doing so.
Film producer Naveen Nautiyal stated that his team is working on film projects that highlight the great personalities and rich culture of Uttarakhand. As part of this effort, he and Lokesh Nawani have struggled for several years to bring the story of ‘Tincheri Mai’ to the screen, and the film is now ready for release.
Also present was Anurag Verma, Head of the Department of Film and Theatre at Sparsh Himalayan University, who said that Indian cinema—especially regional films—is not just a source of entertainment but also a mirror of cultural, social, and traditional aspects of society. Including elements of folk culture in cinema not only keeps films grounded but also offers the audience a reflection of their own environment.
Renowned theatre artist Shreesh Dobhal emphasised that for the advancement of Uttarakhandi cinema, filmmakers must present socially relevant and compelling issues with technical excellence. Alongside sensitive writing and directorial craftsmanship, effective production management and strategic marketing are also essential. Relying solely on government support could limit both objectives and success.
It is notable that during this week-long outreach campaign focused on folk culture, provincial-level office bearers of Sanskar Bharati held meetings and in-depth discussions on fostering national consciousness through art with renowned artists, folk culture-oriented writers, Padma Shri awardee Pritam Bhartwan, Padma Shri awardee Dr Madhuri, Sangeet Natak Akademi awardee Dr DR Purohit, and various folk artists.
Prominent filmmakers such as Vaibhav Bisht, Shubham Sahota, Manvi Nautiyal, Nitish Nandkishore, Girija Semwal, Vishal Pant, Sanjay Singh, Arun Thakur, and others were present at this symposium on regional cinema.
