The November month’s grand screening of the BIFA Birsamunda International Film Awards was held on 13th December 2024 (Friday) at the SACAS Preview Theatre. The event was a prestigious gathering, graced by leading Indian film technicians, award winners of BIFA, and the enthusiastic participation of the Visual Communication students.

Program Overview

The event commenced at 10:00 AM with an energetic and engaging anchoring session led by Mr. Rehan of I BSc Visual Communication. The session opened with a prayer that set the tone for the day, followed by a warm welcome speech delivered by Mr. Shane of I MSc Visual Communication.

The guests were formally welcomed by Dr. R. Srinivasan, who introduced the significance of BIFA and its role in recognizing and celebrating cinematic excellence. This was followed by a brief and inspiring speech by the guests, who shared their insights on the achievements of BIFA and the impact of films in shaping society.

Film Screenings

 The screenings began with an announcement by Mr. Shane, marking the start of an immersive cinematic experience.

Screening 1: Fandry

Duration: 1 hour 41 minutes

Time: 10:05 AM – 12:40 PM

The Marathi film Fandry, known for its raw and poignant depiction of social issues, captivated the audience with its intense narrative and powerful performances. A podcast session followed from 12:40 PM to 1:00 PM, allowing students to reflect on the film’s themes and engage with the guest, Mr. Selvaram, an esteemed film technician. This interactive podcast and interview format provided deeper insights into the creative process and the social impact of cinema.

Screening 2: Heroes of Halyard

Duration: 2 hours 20 minutes

Time: 1:40 PM – 4:00 PM

The second screening, Heroes of Halyard, a compelling war drama, brought historical events to life with stunning visuals and storytelling. The film left the audience inspired and reflective, sparking a post-screening discussion from 4:00 PM to 4:15 PM, where participants explored the cinematic techniques and historical accuracy presented in the film.

Closing Ceremony

The event concluded with a brief closing ceremony from 4:15 PM to 4:30 PM, wrapping up a day filled with learning, inspiration, and celebration of the art of filmmaking.

Conclusion

The BIFA grand screening was a resounding success, offering students and attendees a unique opportunity to experience critically acclaimed films and engage in thought-provoking discussions. The event not only highlighted the power of cinema as a medium for storytelling and societal change but also encouraged aspiring filmmakers to pursue their craft with passion and purpose.