LESSONS AND INSPIRATIONS TO BE DRAWN
A DISCUSSION
In July this year, the students and youth of Bangladesh raised the banner of revolt against the authoritarian rule of Sheikh Hasina government. What started as a students’ movement against the unjust quota system in the government jobs soon turned into a mass uprising against the entire system as more and more people started joining the movement. The brutal state repression and criminalising a genuine protest only led to the increase in the intensity of the storm of protest demonstrations in that country. Scared of people’s anger, Sheikh Hasina fled the country on 5 August. However, in absence of a revolutionary party which could utilise this revolutionary situation to move towards the revolutionary overthrow of the system, the movement could only succeed in ensuring the change of the government. This is a very significant political development which will have repercussions in the entire Indian subcontinent. What are the lessons to be learnt and what are inspirations to be drawn from this movement in our neighbouring country. These are the issues we plan to discuss in our next program.
All are cordially invited!
Visit following link to register for the event. (Entry is free): https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1e5YjlGQn7XxYKui63NPiZjpoGgYrb1RfihFeiEARHfU/
MARATHI ONE ACT PLAY
SHREE TASHI SOW
WRITTEN BY YOGESH SOMAN
DIRECTED BY SUHAS BARVE
I regard the theatre as the greatest of all art forms, the most immediate way in which a human being can share with another the sense of what it is to be a human being - Oscar Wilde
Subtitled in English
When the Nazis rose to power in Germany in 1933, the Jewish Kemper family knew they had to leave Berlin quickly. The father, a theater critic who had openly criticized the Nazis, was in immediate danger. Young Anna Kemper, played by Riva Krymalowski, had to make a tough choice during their hurried escape: she was allowed to take only one cuddly toy with her. She decided to leave her favorite pink rabbit with their housekeeper, Heimpi, who stayed behind. Anna's journey led her from Berlin to Switzerland, then to Paris, and finally to London. This uncertain and unsettled life was full of challenges and hardships, forcing Anna to constantly adapt to new situations. Director Caroline Link's film, based on Judith Kerr's autobiographical children's book, skillfully tells this touching family story. It appeals to both children and adults, addressing the themes of persecution, flight, and exile under Nazism in an age-appropriate way.
All are Welcome!
Alfred Hitchcock was born on August 13, 1899, in Leytonstone, Essex, England, and passed away on April 29, 1980, in Bel Air, Los Angeles, California, USA. Known as the "Master of Suspense," Hitchcock revolutionized filmmaking with his unique style and innovative techniques.
Hitchcock had a remarkable ability to create suspense and tension, often utilizing techniques like the "MacGuffin," an object or event that drives the plot but is insignificant in itself. His films are renowned for their meticulous visual storytelling, where camera angles, lighting, and set design convey emotions and narrative elements without the need for dialogue. A hallmark of Hitchcock’s work was his brief appearances in his films, a playful signature that fans eagerly anticipated.
His exploration of psychological themes such as guilt, fear, and obsession brought depth to his characters and narratives, as exemplified in films like "Psycho" and "Vertigo." Hitchcock was also a pioneer in using innovative techniques and technology, employing long continuous takes in "Rope" to create real-time action and designing a confined set for "Rear Window" that heightened the film’s voyeuristic tension.
Music was another crucial element in Hitchcock’s films. Collaborating with composers like Bernard Herrmann, whose scores for "Psycho" and "Vertigo" are iconic, Hitchcock used music to enhance the emotional and suspenseful atmosphere of his stories. He had a knack for turning ordinary situations into extraordinary and terrifying scenarios, as seen in "The Birds," where a normal town is suddenly attacked by flocks of birds.
A recurring theme in Hitchcock's work is the "wrong man" narrative, where an innocent person is wrongly accused or caught up in dangerous situations. This theme is prominent in films like "North by Northwest" and "The 39 Steps," adding to the tension and intrigue of his stories.
Hitchcock’s unique style and mastery of the thriller genre have left a lasting impact on cinema, establishing him as one of the most influential directors in film history. His innovative approach to filmmaking and ability to engage audiences through suspense and psychological depth continue to inspire filmmakers and captivate audiences worldwide.
Film Title: THE BIRDS | 1963| 119 Mins | USA | English Language with English Subtitles
About the film: The Birds is a 1963 American natural horror-thriller film produced and directed by Alfred Hitchcock and released by Universal Pictures. Loosely based on the 1952 short story of the same name by Daphne du Maurier, it focuses on a series of sudden and unexplained violent bird attacks on the people of Bodega Bay, California, over a few days.
The film stars Rod Taylor and Tippi Hedren in her screen debut alongside Jessica Tandy, Suzanne Pleshette, and Veronica Cartwright. The screenplay is by Evan Hunter, who Hitchcock told to develop new characters and a more elaborate plot while keeping du Maurier's title and concept of unexplained bird attacks.
Screening followed by Discussion. All are Welcome. Entry is Free & Open to all!
All materials and equipment will be provided.
All are welcome!
This play revolves around the funny family members with Hyderabadi dialect and how they keep themselves busy with crazy and mad things. The protagonist Khala (elderly aunt in Urdu) is an ill-tempered but sensitive woman who is feared by everyone. It will take you on the laughter ride through the funny Nok-Jhok between the husband, wife and a servant. Beauty of the play is revealed at the last. The play maintains a fine balance between a character comedy and slapstick. Without leaning too much on either of them, the play manages to tickle the funny bones of the audience and in the process, slips in a social message as well.
Written and directed by Ali Ahmed Faisal
A telugu shortfilm with the context of-
In Satya Yuga, good and evil existed in separate worlds. In Treta Yuga, evil invaded the realm of good. In Dwapara Yuga, they were bound by blood. But in Kali Yuga, they coexist within one person – you.
"TRIO: The Battle Within" explores the internal struggle of good and evil through the three gunas: Sattva (goodness), Rajas (passion), and Tamas (ignorance).Who decides if you are good or evil? How do we measure righteousness in today's world?
Join us for a thought-provoking journey that questions the essence of morality and human nature.
All age groups can watch.
Free entry all are invited.
Alfred Hitchcock was born on August 13, 1899, in Leytonstone, Essex, England, and passed away on April 29, 1980, in Bel Air, Los Angeles, California, USA. Known as the "Master of Suspense," Hitchcock revolutionized filmmaking with his unique style and innovative techniques.
Hitchcock had a remarkable ability to create suspense and tension, often utilizing techniques like the "MacGuffin," an object or event that drives the plot but is insignificant in itself. His films are renowned for their meticulous visual storytelling, where camera angles, lighting, and set design convey emotions and narrative elements without the need for dialogue. A hallmark of Hitchcock’s work was his brief appearances in his films, a playful signature that fans eagerly anticipated.
His exploration of psychological themes such as guilt, fear, and obsession brought depth to his characters and narratives, as exemplified in films like "Psycho" and "Vertigo." Hitchcock was also a pioneer in using innovative techniques and technology, employing long continuous takes in "Rope" to create real-time action and designing a confined set for "Rear Window" that heightened the film’s voyeuristic tension.
Music was another crucial element in Hitchcock’s films. Collaborating with composers like Bernard Herrmann, whose scores for "Psycho" and "Vertigo" are iconic, Hitchcock used music to enhance the emotional and suspenseful atmosphere of his stories. He had a knack for turning ordinary situations into extraordinary and terrifying scenarios, as seen in "The Birds," where a normal town is suddenly attacked by flocks of birds.
A recurring theme in Hitchcock's work is the "wrong man" narrative, where an innocent person is wrongly accused or caught up in dangerous situations. This theme is prominent in films like "North by Northwest" and "The 39 Steps," adding to the tension and intrigue of his stories.
Hitchcock’s unique style and mastery of the thriller genre have left a lasting impact on cinema, establishing him as one of the most influential directors in film history. His innovative approach to filmmaking and ability to engage audiences through suspense and psychological depth continue to inspire filmmakers and captivate audiences worldwide.
Film Title: FAMILY PLOT | 1976 | 120 Mins | USA | English Language with English Subtitles
About the film: Family Plot is a 1976 American black comedy thriller film directed by Alfred Hitchcock in his final directing role. It was based on Victor Canning's 1972 novel The Rainbird Pattern, which Ernest Lehman adapted for the screen. The film stars Karen Black, Bruce Dern, Barbara Harris, and William Devane; it was screened at the 1976 Cannes Film Festival but not entered the main competition.
The story involves two couples: a "fake" psychic and her cab-driving boyfriend and a pair of professional thieves and kidnappers. Their lives come into conflict because of a search for a missing heir. The film's title is a pun: "family plot" can refer to an area in a cemetery that one family has bought for the burial of its various relatives; in this case, it also means a dramatic plot line involving multiple family members.
Screening followed by Discussion. All are Welcome. Entry is Free & Open to all!
29-31 August; 3-7 pm
Curated by Amudhan RP
Jointly organised by LAMAKAAN & MARUPAKKAM
Freedom means different things to different people. In a country like India, where caste, class, gender, and religion play a vital role in ensuring freedom for all of us to live with dignity and to think independently, civil society must revisit the word freedom periodically to keep it alive and effectual.
This mini film festival is an attempt to reflect upon the various voices raised in recent times to protect freedom from being endangered.
About Amudhan: Amudhan R.P.
Born and brought up in a rural and small town background, Amudhan developed his liking for cinema by watching popular Tamil films with his mother Pushpam, a farmer, while sitting on the sand-bed in thatched and temporary cinema halls called Touring Talkies.
Cinema has always been a collective activity / place for Amudhan, in which people from different backgrounds come together and imagine multiple worlds in a given short time.
After completing his Post Graduation in Development Communication from Madurai Kamraj University and a two year stint from Centre for Development of Instructional Technology (CENDIT), New Delhi, Amudhan set up MARUPAKKAM (The Other Side, in Tamil) a media action group in Madurai with his like minded friends to produce, screen and disseminate documentary films, in 1996.
Amudhan has made around 20 films on various social, political and economical themes since then. He also founded Madurai International Documentary and Short Film Festival and Chennai International Documentary and Short Film Festival has been conducting them for over 23 years and 10 years respectively.
He also curates various thematic film festivals across India. He has been part of many film festivals in India as a member of the Selection Committee and a Final Jury on various occasions.
He has conducted Documentary Workshops at prestigious educational institutions such as the National Institute of Design (Ahmedabad), Jamia Millia Islamia (New Delhi), Central University of Hyderabad, LV Prasad Film Academy (Chennai), St Joseph’s College (Bengaluru), Loyola College (Chennai), Chetana Film Institute (Thrissur) and Sacred Heart College (Kochi).
Currently, Amudhan has been pursuing Mobile Phone Filmmaking since the COVID-19-induced lockdown, experimenting with the medium while expressing human anxieties and reaching out to nature.
Aparna Thota and Sujatha Surepally will host the homecoming.
Jointly organised by LAMAKAAN & MARUPAKKAM
Freedom means different things to different people. In a country like India, where caste, class, gender, and religion play a vital role in ensuring freedom for all of us to live with dignity and to think independently, civil society must revisit the word freedom periodically to keep it alive and effectual.
This mini film festival is an attempt to reflect upon the various voices raised in recent times to protect freedom from being endangered.
About Amudhan: Amudhan R.P.
Born and brought up in a rural and small town background, Amudhan developed his liking for cinema by watching popular Tamil films with his mother Pushpam, a farmer, while sitting on the sand-bed in thatched and temporary cinema halls called Touring Talkies.
Cinema has always been a collective activity / place for Amudhan, in which people from different backgrounds come together and imagine multiple worlds in a given short time.
After completing his Post Graduation in Development Communication from Madurai Kamraj University and a two year stint from Centre for Development of Instructional Technology (CENDIT), New Delhi, Amudhan set up MARUPAKKAM (The Other Side, in Tamil) a media action group in Madurai with his like minded friends to produce, screen and disseminate documentary films, in 1996.
Amudhan has made around 20 films on various social, political and economical themes since then. He also founded Madurai International Documentary and Short Film Festival and Chennai International Documentary and Short Film Festival has been conducting them for over 23 years and 10 years respectively.
He also curates various thematic film festivals across India. He has been part of many film festivals in India as a member of the Selection Committee and a Final Jury on various occasions.
He has conducted Documentary Workshops at prestigious educational institutions such as the National Institute of Design (Ahmedabad), Jamia Millia Islamia (New Delhi), Central University of Hyderabad, LV Prasad Film Academy (Chennai), St Joseph’s College (Bengaluru), Loyola College (Chennai), Chetana Film Institute (Thrissur) and Sacred Heart College (Kochi).
Currently, Amudhan has been pursuing Mobile Phone Filmmaking since the COVID-19-induced lockdown, experimenting with the medium while expressing human anxieties and reaching out to nature.
Jointly organised by LAMAKAAN & MARUPAKKAM
Freedom means different things to different people. In a country like India, where caste, class, gender, and religion play a vital role in ensuring freedom for all of us to live with dignity and to think independently, civil society must revisit the word freedom periodically to keep it alive and effectual.
This mini film festival is an attempt to reflect upon the various voices raised in recent times to protect freedom from being endangered.
About Amudhan: Amudhan R.P.
Born and brought up in a rural and small town background, Amudhan developed his liking for cinema by watching popular Tamil films with his mother Pushpam, a farmer, while sitting on the sand-bed in thatched and temporary cinema halls called Touring Talkies.
Cinema has always been a collective activity / place for Amudhan, in which people from different backgrounds come together and imagine multiple worlds in a given short time.
After completing his Post Graduation in Development Communication from Madurai Kamraj University and a two year stint from Centre for Development of Instructional Technology (CENDIT), New Delhi, Amudhan set up MARUPAKKAM (The Other Side, in Tamil) a media action group in Madurai with his like minded friends to produce, screen and disseminate documentary films, in 1996.
Amudhan has made around 20 films on various social, political and economical themes since then. He also founded Madurai International Documentary and Short Film Festival and Chennai International Documentary and Short Film Festival has been conducting them for over 23 years and 10 years respectively.
He also curates various thematic film festivals across India. He has been part of many film festivals in India as a member of the Selection Committee and a Final Jury on various occasions.
He has conducted Documentary Workshops at prestigious educational institutions such as the National Institute of Design (Ahmedabad), Jamia Millia Islamia (New Delhi), Central University of Hyderabad, LV Prasad Film Academy (Chennai), St Joseph’s College (Bengaluru), Loyola College (Chennai), Chetana Film Institute (Thrissur) and Sacred Heart College (Kochi).
Currently, Amudhan has been pursuing Mobile Phone Filmmaking since the COVID-19-induced lockdown, experimenting with the medium while expressing human anxieties and reaching out to nature.
human mind. Very often they can reveal what lies
within, sometimes visibly, and, sometimes, not quite so
visibly. The movie club is (we hope) a fun way of
looking deeper into the emotions, perceptions and
thoughts that weave human relationships together or
tear them apart. A movie may be treated as a true story
or, alternatively, can be used as a tool to try and figure
out what went on in the directors head when the movie
was made. Either way, it’s a different way of
understanding human behavior and relationships. In the
end, by looking deeper into another’s story, we hope,
perchance, to understand ourselves better.
Come and support these young, talented dancers as they take up the stage for the first time to bring the beauty of Bharathanatyam.
We can't wait to see you there!
All are welcome!
Jean Renoir (1894–1979) was a pioneering French filmmaker and one of the most influential directors in cinema history. Born on September 15, 1894, in Paris, France, he was the son of the renowned impressionist painter Pierre-Auguste Renoir. Jean Renoir made his mark in the film industry with a body of work characterized by its humanism, social commentary, and innovative techniques. His films, such as La Grande Illusion (1937) and The Rules of the Game (1939), are celebrated for their deep characterizations, fluid camera movements, and exploration of class and societal structures. Renoir's style often blended realism with poetic storytelling, earning him a lasting legacy in both French and world cinema. He passed away on February 12, 1979, in Beverly Hills, California, leaving behind a rich cinematic heritage.
Film Title: THE GRAND ILLUSION | 1937 | 113 Mins | France | French Language with English Subtitles
About the film: A group of French soldiers, including the patrician Captain de Boeldieu (Pierre Fresnay) and the working-class Lieutenant Maréchal (Jean Gabin), grapple with their own class differences after being captured and held in a World War I German prison camp. When the men are transferred to a high-security fortress, they must concoct a plan to escape beneath the watchful eye of aristocratic German officer von Rauffenstein (Erich von Stroheim), who has formed an unexpected bond with de Boeldieu.
Screening followed by Discussion. All are Welcome. Entry is Free & Open to all!
Email Description: Children, parents, grandparents, and young people of all ages are cordially invited to a puppet performance titled "Ganesha: The Elephant-Headed One." A classic tale of never-ending hilarity and enchantment from the Indian Ithihaasa Puranas. As the traditional Puppeteer troupes are in danger of extinction, the show is being used as a fundraiser. What could be more thrilling than a play that is a huge hit with kids and that is being performed by kids themselves? The show is in English Ticket- Rs 200/-
SMS Description: Ganesha Puppet Show
Santosh Mehra retired DG of police of AP,Sulogna Das ,HR professional from kolkata now based in Hyderabad, Sushma Chitta, a stand up comedian and good speaker, Sarah Abraham, social activist, Tashi Choedup social activist and Buddhist monk.
We expect an audience of 25 people at the maximum.
Email Description: Children, parents, grandparents, and young people of all ages are cordially invited to a puppet performance titled "Ganesha-Karthikeya: Fruit of Wisdom- A classic tale of never-ending hilarity and enchantment from the Indian Ithihaasa Puranas. As the traditional Puppeteer troupes are in danger of extinction, the show is being used as a fundraiser. What could be more thrilling than a play that is a huge hit with kids and that is being performed by kids themselves? The show is in English Ticket- Rs 200/-
SMS Description: Ganesha-Karthikeya"-Fruit of Wisdom Puppet Show
and sexual violence. The performance is filled with unfulfilled desires, confessions, secrets and
dreams. Journeying between childhood, youth and womanhood, the actors provoke questions
around identity, freedom and justice. Nazar ke Samne is woven from personal experiences,
listening closely to the body to reveal beauty and violence in everyday life.
presents
A collection of classic comedies
Anton Chekhov`s
THE PROPOSAL
(Hindi Play)
&
K Balarama Murthy`s
KAAGITAM PADAVA
(Telugu Play)
&
Madabhushi Divakar Babu`s
KUNDETI KOMMU
(Telugu Play)
Directed by Rathna Shekar
08th September 2024
07.30pm
Lamakaan, Banjara Hills, Hyderabad
Entry ₹100 available at in.bookmyshow.com
THE PROPOSAL
Anton Chekhov`s play "The Proposal" in Hindi is a comedic one-act farce about Rajveer, a nervous man seeking to propose to his neighbor`s daughter, Shivani. Misunderstandings and petty arguments over land and dogs lead to chaos. Will the proposal be accepted ?
KAAGITAM PADAVA
The editors of a newly established magazine Ideal Illustrated Weekly have advertised for writers to contribute to their columns.
However, It was asked to demonstrate their talent at their office and not to send the writings by post. Then a song writer, serial writer, culinary writer and a film reviewer walk into the office one after the other to showcase their talent. Will they succeed in impressing the editor?
With many laugh out loud moments, unexpected twists, this play is a hilarious take on the obsession with self promotion and the extremes people will go in the pursuit of recognition.
KUNDETI KOMMU
Kundeti Kommu depicts the clash between two once-united villages, Pedduru and Chinnuru, torn apart by political strife. The narrative unfolds as a traveller, engaged in conversation with an urbanite, collapses precisely on the boundary line separating the two villages. This event sparks a contentious dispute over who bears the responsibility for the deceased`s final rites.
A new dilemma emerges as both brothers vie for the privilege of conducting the last rites, each blinded by the promise of monetary gain. Who will ultimately lay claim to the elusive fortune? Only by witnessing the unfolding drama will the truth be revealed.
Jean Renoir (1894–1979) was a pioneering French filmmaker and one of the most influential directors in cinema history. Born on September 15, 1894, in Paris, France, he was the son of the renowned impressionist painter Pierre-Auguste Renoir. Jean Renoir made his mark in the film industry with a body of work characterized by its humanism, social commentary, and innovative techniques. His films, such as La Grande Illusion (1937) and The Rules of the Game (1939), are celebrated for their deep characterizations, fluid camera movements, and exploration of class and societal structures. Renoir's style often blended realism with poetic storytelling, earning him a lasting legacy in both French and world cinema. He passed away on February 12, 1979, in Beverly Hills, California, leaving behind a rich cinematic heritage.
Film Title: THE RIVER | 1951 | 99 Mins | France, India, & USA | Bengali & English Language with English Subtitles
About the film: The River (French: Le Fleuve) is a 1951 Technicolor drama romance film directed by Jean Renoir and produced by Kenneth McEldowney. The cast includes Esmond Knight, Nora Swinburne and Arthur Shields. A fairly faithful dramatization of the 1946 novel of the same name by Rumer Godden, the film's narrative follows a teenage girl's coming of age and first love, with the namesake river serving as both the backdrop and a central metaphor. The film was shot in Calcutta, India, where Indian filmmaker Satyajit Ray, who was then only a student of cinema, could meet Renoir for guidance.
Screening followed by Discussion. All are Welcome. Entry is Free & Open to all!
This is the explosive memoir of Bhanwar Meghwanshi which tells us what it meant to be an untouchable in the RSS. And what it means to become Dalit.
Speakers: Bhanwar Meghwanshi
K.Srinivas, Editor, Andhra Jyothi
6 pm, September 13th, Friday, Lamakaan
Join us to raise awareness about the critical issues of gender equality, women's empowerment, and safety in India. This event aims to shed light on the alarming rise in violence against women, including the heinous crimes of rape and murder. We will stand in solidarity with the family of the young female doctor who was tragically murdered at RG Kar Hospital in Kolkata, demanding swift justice for this horrific act.
The event will feature a powerful showcase of short films that explore the complexities of gender-based violence, discrimination, and the struggles faced by women in various aspects of life. Through thought-provoking narratives and compelling visuals, these films will spark important conversations and inspire action.
Following the film screenings, we will host a panel discussion featuring experts, activists, and survivors who will share their insights and experiences. The discussion will delve into the root causes of gender-based violence, the challenges faced by women in India, and the urgent need for systemic change. We will explore strategies for promoting gender equality, empowering women, and creating a safer environment for all.
This event is an opportunity to raise our voices against the atrocities committed against women, including the harassment and violence faced by female doctors in medical colleges and hospitals. We will advocate for stronger measures to protect women in the workplace and ensure their safety and well-being.
By attending this event, you can contribute to a movement for positive change and help create a more just and equitable society for all. Let us come together to demand justice for the victims of violence, support survivors, and work towards a future where women can live free from fear and discrimination.
Key Topics:
* Gender equality and women's empowerment
* Women's safety and security
* Violence against women, including rape and murder
* Justice for the victim of the RG Kar Hospital incident
* Safety of women in the workplace
* Harassment and discrimination faced by female doctors
Call for Participation
We invite filmmakers, activists, students, and members of the community to join us for this important event. Your participation will contribute to creating a meaningful and impactful experience for all attendees.