SCREEN Academy Launched to Nurture Emerging Film Talent in India
A new initiative called SCREEN Academy was announced on Wednesday by The Indian Express Group and SCREEN. This not-for-profit organization is designed to support and highlight new talent in Indian cinema.
The Academy features a remarkable roster of members, including acclaimed filmmakers like Guneet Monga, Payal Kapadia, and sound designer Resul Pookutty, as well as veteran screenwriter Anjum Rajabali. It aims to empower the next generation of filmmakers by teaming up with top film schools in India to provide education, representation, and recognition.
Supported by Abhishek Lodha from the Lodha Foundation, SCREEN Academy will offer postgraduate fellowships to students nominated by their film schools. These fellowships will be available for those who show outstanding storytelling abilities but may struggle financially to pursue formal film education.
Maharashtra’s Chief Minister, Shri Devendra Fadnavis, emphasized the significance of the Academy, saying, “The film industry has a deep connection with Mumbai. I am excited about the launch of the not-for-profit Screen Academy and believe it will greatly benefit the Indian film industry.”
Anant Goenka, Executive Director of The Indian Express Group, shared that the Academy is a promising step toward fostering excellence in entertainment. “We aim to create an environment that not only recognizes talent but actively nurtures diverse voices,” he said.
Abhishek Lodha added that the Academy’s contribution is crucial for India’s global standing in creative arts. “The Lodha Foundation supports initiatives like SCREEN Academy that help drive India’s growth in this important field.”
The SCREEN Academy Fellowships for 2025 will cover the full cost of postgraduate studies at top institutions like the Film and Television Institute of India in Pune, the Satyajit Ray Film and Television Institute in Kolkata, and Whistling Woods International in Mumbai. The Academy plans to extend its offerings by partnering with more film schools in the future.
In addition to financial support, fellows will gain access to an extensive mentorship program featuring industry leaders who will offer masterclasses, internships, and professional guidance.
Dhiraj Singh, Director of the Film and Television Institute of India, expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration, stating, “SCREEN is highly respected in film journalism, and I believe this partnership will greatly benefit students and the industry.”
Samiran Dutta, Director of the Satyajit Ray Institute, noted that the fellowships will address a significant need. “Many talented individuals from various parts of India face financial hurdles in pursuing film education. The SCREEN Academy fellowship will help alleviate these challenges.”
Meghna Ghai Puri, President of Whistling Woods International, echoed these sentiments, saying, “This scholarship ensures that financial issues do not limit creativity. It’s about nurturing tomorrow’s storytellers.”
The selection of fellows will be managed by a panel led by Anjum Rajabali. He stated, “This generous initiative offers vital support to young people pursuing formal education in filmmaking. These scholarships will enhance the quality of storytelling in the film and TV sectors.”
