In the ever-evolving world of media and journalism, where storytelling meets technology and culture, staying ahead means embracing innovation. At the School of Media and Journalism (SoMJ) at Dr. D. Y. Patil International University (DYPIU), we’re thrilled to spotlight our latest initiative: a transformative Film Appreciation Course running from September 15 to 19, 2025. This isn’t just another course—it’s a dynamic, intensive dive into the art and craft of cinema, designed in collaboration with the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII), Pune. For our 2nd and 3rd-year B.A. Journalism and Mass Communication (JMC) students, this mandatory curriculum gem promises not only academic credits but a certificate from one of India’s cinematic powerhouses. Let’s explore why this course is a game-changer, how FTII stands as a mega brand in the industry, and what our partnership means for aspiring media professionals.

The Innovation Behind the Lens: A Fresh Take on Film Education

What makes this course truly innovative? DYPIU’s Film Appreciation Course flips the script with a hands-on, immersive approach that bridges classroom learning with real-world cinematic insights. Spanning five full days (10:00 AM to 5:00 PM), the schedule is meticulously crafted to unpack cinema’s multifaceted world—from script to screen, acting techniques to sound design, and visual storytelling to film analysis.

Imagine starting your week with Dr. Milind Damle’s session on “From Script to Screen,” followed by Prof. Samaradarshee Dutta’s deep dive into “Acting in Cinema.” Mid-week, you’ll explore the “Basics of Editing” with Prof. Sumeet Kumar and “Basics of Sound” with Prof. Atul Lanjewar. Thursday brings “Basics of Animation” by Prof. Mandar Digrajkar and “Film Form and Structure” by Prof. Dr. Indranil Bhattacharya, while Friday wraps up with “Songs in Cinema” and “Film Analysis.” Each day features dual sessions, blending theory with practical discussions, ensuring participants don’t just watch films—they dissect them critically.

This structure is innovative because it treats cinema as a living, breathing discipline. Unlike traditional courses that skim the surface, ours emphasizes scholarly perspectives on history, aesthetics, culture, and technique. It’s tailored for the digital age, where media professionals must understand how films influence communication, society, and even journalism. By requiring full attendance and a final test for certification, we foster commitment and active engagement, turning passive viewers into informed critics and creators. For JMC students, this means honing skills that enhance everything from video reporting to content creation, making it an essential tool for professional growth.

FTII: The Mega Brand Shaping Indian Cinema

When we say FTII is a mega brand, we’re not exaggerating—it’s the gold standard of film education not only in India, but world. It is a beacon that’s illuminated the careers of some of the country’s most iconic filmmakers. Established in 1960, the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII) in Pune has been the cradle of cinematic excellence for over six decades. Housed in the historic Prabhat Studios, FTII boasts a legacy of nurturing talents like Shabana Azmi, Naseeruddin Shah, Girish Karnad, and Adoor Gopalakrishnan, whose works have defined parallel cinema and global Indian narratives.

FTII’s reputation extends far beyond its alumni; it’s a hub for cutting-edge training in direction, cinematography, editing, and more, with a curriculum that’s globally respected. The institute has produced over 3,000 graduates who helm major Bollywood productions, independent films, and even international collaborations. Its three-year postgraduate programs are rigorous, blending artistic vision with technical prowess, and its faculty—industry veterans and scholars—bring unparalleled expertise. Collaborating with FTII isn’t just prestigious; it’s a stamp of authenticity in an industry often criticized for commercial overkill. For students, attending sessions led by FTII’s renowned instructors is like getting a masterclass from the architects of Indian cinema itself.

The Power of Partnership: DYPIU and FTII United for Future Storytellers

Our collaboration with FTII marks a pivotal moment for DYPIU’s SoMJ, elevating our media programs to new heights. By teaming up with this premier institution, we’re infusing our curriculum with FTII’s world-class pedagogy, ensuring that our students receive insights straight from the source. This isn’t a one-off event; it’s a strategic alliance that democratizes access to elite film education, making it available to undergraduate JMC students who might otherwise only dream of FTII’s hallowed halls.

The benefits are manifold: Students gain a FTII-issued certificate upon completion, a credential that opens doors in media houses, production studios, and beyond. For DYPIU, partnering with FTII reinforces our commitment to innovation and excellence, positioning us as a forward-thinking university in Akurdi, Pune. Inaugurated by Prof. Dr. Manish Bhalla, Vice Chancellor of DYPIU, the course symbolizes our shared vision of fostering critical thinkers who can navigate cinema’s vast and wondrous world. This synergy not only enriches academic offerings but also builds a bridge between academia and industry, preparing graduates for a media landscape where visual storytelling reigns supreme.

Lights, Camera, Action: Why You Can’t Miss This

As the course kicks off today (September 16, 2025), we’re reminded that cinema isn’t just entertainment—it’s a mirror to society and a tool for change. DYPIU’s Film Appreciation Course, powered by our FTII collaboration, is more than innovative; it’s a launchpad for the next generation of media innovators. To our 2nd and 3rd-year B.A. JMC students: This is mandatory for a reason. Attend with enthusiasm, engage deeply, and watch how it transforms your perspective.

Let’s celebrate the magic of movies together—because in the words of cinema itself, the show must go on!

What are your thoughts on this course? Have you attended FTII workshops/courses before? Share in the comments below!