Ram Madhvani and Mahaveer Jain Discuss Cinema’s Role in Nation Building at IFFI
At the 56th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in Goa, acclaimed director Ram Madhvani and renowned producer Mahaveer Jain engaged in a meaningful discussion on “The Power and Impact of Our Stories on Nation Building.” The conversation was led by Divyansh Jain, the youngest producer and director in the film industry today.
Established in 1952, IFFI is the only South Asian film festival recognized by the International Federation of Film Producers’ Associations (FIAPF) in the Competitive Feature Films category. It serves as a platform to showcase significant cinema from around the world each year.
During the session, Madhvani and Jain discussed the profound influence of storytelling on culture and society. Madhvani noted that India is a civilization deeply rooted in storytelling, highlighting the importance of epic tales like the Ramayana and Mahabharata, which have guided the moral values of the nation. He emphasized that today’s creators have the duty to produce narratives that not only entertain but also reflect the values and history of India.
Jain added that the ancient wisdom of India should be shared globally through cinema. He mentioned, “Our sages have provided solutions for many of life’s challenges, and it is essential to spread this wisdom through entertainment.”
Madhvani shared his love for tragedy in storytelling, stating that the tragic hero is often overlooked in modern cinema. He referenced iconic figures like Meena Kumari and Dilip Kumar, expressing his desire to evoke deep emotions in viewers. “In everything I create, my goal is to touch a nerve and bring forth catharsis,” he explained.
He also reminisced about the film “Guide,” calling it one of India’s greatest spiritual films, and expressed a hope to create something equally impactful in the future.
The International Film Festival of India continues to be a critical space for filmmakers and storytellers to explore cinema’s significant role in shaping culture, identity, and national narratives.
