Chandigarh: Chitkara International School, in collaboration with Cinevidya, hosted the sixth edition of CineMaestro Film Festival & Awards, a dynamic platform designed to nurture the creativity and talents of young filmmakers. Schools from across the region participated in the festival, making it a vibrant celebration of student filmmaking and storytelling.
The event was graced by popular actor Aparshakti Khurana, the chief guest, known for his performances in films like Dangal, Stree, and Luka Chuppi. Khurana engaged with the young audience, sharing personal experiences from his journey in the entertainment industry. He spoke about the importance of passion, perseverance, and storytelling, encouraging students to explore their creativity and follow their dreams in filmmaking. His insights into the world of cinema captivated the audience, leaving a lasting impression on the aspiring filmmakers.
Amitabha Singh, founder of Cinevidya and a renowned cinematographer known for films such as Khosla Ka Ghosla and the National Award-winning Chillar Party, was a key figure in the event. Singh, through Cinevidya, is committed to mentoring the next generation of filmmakers, offering students the opportunity to explore the technical and creative aspects of filmmaking. His guidance emphasized the role of young talent in shaping the future of Indian cinema, especially in the realm of children’s cinema.
Dr. Niyati Chitkara, Director Schools, Chitkara International School, Chandigarh and Panchkula, expressed her pride in the festival's role in bridging the gap between school education and the film industry. She emphasized that CineMaestro offers students a platform to develop valuable skills in visual storytelling, collaboration, problem-solving, and critical thinking—skills that are essential for success in any professional field.
The festival showcased a diverse range of student-created films that reflected a wide spectrum of themes and genres. From drama and horror to fiction and social commentary, the films were a testament to the students' creativity and technical skills. Noteworthy films included Nari, which focused on women’s empowerment; Street Tails, shedding light on the plight of street animals; and Beyond the Boards, highlighting the struggles faced by students. Other films, such as Breathless, tackled mental health issues, while Silent Screams explored personal and emotional challenges. Each film reflected the unique perspective of its young creators, demonstrating their ability to convey powerful messages through cinema.
The festival concluded with a grand awards ceremony, recognizing outstanding achievements across various categories, including Best Director, Best Film, Best Cinematography, Best Film Editing, Best Sound Design, Best Actor, and Best Screenwriting. Each winner was presented with a beautifully crafted trophy and a certificate of appreciation, along with a goodie bag filled with thoughtful gifts to commemorate their achievement.
CineMaestro - Take 6 was more than just a film festival; it was a celebration of young talent and the powerful role that education and the arts play in shaping the future of filmmaking. The event left an indelible mark on the participants, inspiring them to continue pursuing their passion for cinema and storytelling.