Ravindra Bharathi’s Cinevaaram guiding, inspiring young Telugu filmmakers

Hyderabad: Cinevaaram, an initiative launched in 2016, has provided a significant platform for young and aspiring filmmakers to showcase their talents in the Telugu film industry. The initiative has completed more than 200 weeks of screenings at the Paidi Jairaj Preview Theatre of Ravindra Bharathi. The platform has been instrumental in helping many young filmmakers receive valuable feedback and encouragement from audiences, furthering their creative journey.

Notably, the director of the popular movie ‘Pellichoopulu,’ Tharun Bhascker, showcased his short film ‘Sainma’ at the first Cinevaaram screening. The initiative has become a gateway for many aspiring artists to enter the industry, and Cinevaaram also facilitates constructive discussions to help amateur filmmakers improve their craft.

Ravindra Bharati’s Cinevaaram has provided a much-needed platform for aspiring filmmakers to kickstart their careers in the Telugu film industry.

Speaking about the initiative, Venu Udugula, the director of renowned movies like ‘Virata Parvam’ and ‘Needi Naadi Oke Katha,’ says, “Prior to its inception, many enthusiasts had a passion for movies but were unsure of where to start and whom to approach. However, Cinevaaram has not only given them a direction but also opened up new opportunities to showcase their talents, learn about movies, and network with people from various backgrounds.”

The platform has gained immense popularity and has become a gateway for many aspiring artists to enter the industry. Additionally, Cinevaaram also offers encouragement to amateur filmmakers by screening their short films and facilitating constructive discussions to help them improve their craft.

Venu Udugula expressed gratitude and extended congratulations to Mamidi Harikrishna, along with Yennengee and Akshara Kumar, for their instrumental role in achieving success.

Speaking about Cinevaaram, actor, writer and director Yennengee says, “Before Cinevaaram, there was no dedicated space for independent filmmakers to meet and showcase their work. Thus, the idea was born to have a government-supported space for filmmakers to screen their short films and network. Thanks to Mamidi Harikrishna, this idea became a reality.”

He further adds, “Every Saturday, short films are screened at Cinevaaram, and the screening is followed by a discussion. The platform has been crucial for aspiring directors to showcase their talent and join the film industry, with many participants going on to become assistant directors. Cinevaaram has played a significant role in launching the careers of actors, directors, writers, and cinematographers in the industry today.”

Lyric writer Priyanka emphasises the importance of more than just applause for artists. She states that appreciation serves as encouragement, and Ravindra Bharathi’s Cinevaaram initiative has been a significant source of encouragement for young talent in the Telugu film industry. “Many individuals who have showcased their work through Cinevaaram have gone on to establish successful careers, with the platform playing a crucial role in connecting aspiring filmmakers with industry professionals.”

Priyanka also expresses her personal gratitude to Cinevaaram for helping her expand her network, which has been beneficial to her as a lyric writer.

Palle Sunny, a photographer with aspirations to become an actor, had trouble finding auditions until he discovered Cinevaaram. He says, “Cinevaaram has helped me build my network in the film industry. I have been able to connect with people from different areas of the cinema industry, giving me access to movie offices and allowing me to approach directors and showcase my talent.”

He also mentions that he won the Best Cinematography award for the short film ‘The Last Chapter’ among 150 contestants in the 48-hour film festival conducted by Cinevaaram. Furthermore, the department of language and culture director gave him the opportunity to exhibit his photographs, which highlights the department’s commitment to encourage young talent.

Palle Sunny has appeared in popular films such as ‘Virata Parvam,’ ‘Dorasani’ and 'Panchatantra Kathalu' and will be seen in a significant role in the upcoming movie ‘Hangman.’

Sunday Cinema

Another initiative, Sunday Cinema, was launched in January 2018 to introduce young filmmakers and film enthusiasts to world cinema. Every Sunday, carefully selected international films are screened at the Paidi Jayaraj Preview Theatre, followed by expert-led discussions focusing on techniques, themes, and approaches that make each film unique. These discussions are also broadcasted live on YouTube and Facebook, making it accessible to audiences beyond Telangana.

Sunday Cinema has been successful in helping aspiring filmmakers learn about emotions, storylines, scenic order, and screenplay techniques. The initiative showcases a diverse range of films that reflect different cultures, languages, and perspectives.

Mamidi Harikrishna, who led the department of language and culture’s dedicated efforts to establish Telangana cinema as a unique and alternative form of storytelling, says, “After eight years of dedicated efforts by the department of language and culture to establish Telangana cinema as a unique and alternative form of storytelling, their vision is finally bearing fruit. The seeds that were sown years ago have now matured and are yielding a bountiful harvest. Through their unwavering commitment, Telangana cinema has emerged as a distinctive voice in the industry, showcasing authentic and original stories that resonate with audiences worldwide.”

The tireless efforts of the department have paid off, paving the way for a new era of cinema that celebrates creativity, diversity, and the power of storytelling. Cinevaaram and Sunday Cinema have contributed significantly to this new era, providing platforms for young and aspiring filmmakers to showcase their talents and learn from global cinema.