Oum Films, in collaboration with Srinivassa Sinai Dempo College of Commerce & Economics, is launching short courses in film and theatre, by award-winning filmmaker Capt. (Doc.) Ujjwal V. Thengdi
Interested in film and theatre? Starting April 11, a two-month programme will help aspiring performers develop skills in acting, screenplay writing, direction, camera work, editing and production. Conducted in collaboration with Oum Films and SS Dempo College of Commerce & Economics, Cujira, it welcomes individuals from all backgrounds, focusing on nurturing fresh talent.
The initiative is by award-winning filmmaker Capt. (Doc.) Ujjwal V. Thengdi, a three-time Filmfare and six-time Maharashtra State Award winner. Through Oum Films and offbeat.images (UK), he brings his experience from Mumbai and London as he aims to make the state a hub for emerging filmmakers and theatre artistes.
Thengdi’s inspiration comes from his belief in cinema and theatre as agents of change. He recalls how his mother, “the first blind actress to win an international award for Best Supporting Actress,” instilled in him a passion for storytelling. Seeing how the arts provided her with a platform despite her visual impairment, he became determined to create similar opportunities for aspiring artistes.
“My mother’s journey showed me that storytelling has no barriers. Talent needs the right platform, and that’s what we aim to provide with this course,” he shares.
The programme sessions will be held in the afternoons, making them accessible to students and working professionals. “While instruction is in Hindi and English, participants are encouraged to express themselves in any language they are comfortable with,” says Thengdi.
Students will also get opportunities to work on stage performances and film projects, applying their skills in real-world scenarios. The training is priced at Rs. 30,000, with a certificate awarded upon completion. Thengdi, a former board director of Film City, Mumbai, emphasises that in the entertainment industry, performance speaks louder than certificates. “We’re looking for individuals with a passion for storytelling, whether on stage or screen. Our goal is to introduce fresh faces to film and theatre by providing quality training and industry insights,” he says.
