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Economic Times
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- Economic Times
A lonely footballer breathes life into clay
News of cross-cultural exchanges and transnational cooperation in the arts have become oxygen for my determined optimism in an increasingly divided world. The Oscars earlier this year delivered tankfuls of hope with the Iranian auteur-in-exile Mohammad Rasoulof's Farsi film, The Seed of the Sacred Fig (Daane-ye anjeer-e ma'abed), in the fray as Germany's entry in the Best International Feature race, while Britain entered a Hindi language production - British Indian director Sandhya Suri's Santosh - in that category. Both were premiered last summer at the Cannes Film Festival, an event that routinely throws up instances of blurring borders. One such heartening collaboration at the just-concluded Cannes 2025 bears a stamp of India. A Doll Made Up of Clay - part of the official selection for the students' competition at the fest - is written and directed by Kokob Gebrehaweria Tesfay, an Ethiopian student of Kolkata's Satyajit Ray Film and Television Institute (SRFTI), and recipient of the ICCR (Indian Council for Cultural Relations) African Scholarship. Produced by a fellow student, Sahil Manoj Ingle, this 23-min short features a multiracial, multinational team, including a Bangladeshi editor, Mahmud Abu Naser. It blends Yoruba and Bengali dialogues, and is about a Nigerian footballer in Kolkata, played by Ibrahim Ahmed -- a Nigerian footballer in Kolkata. It is, as Kokob told me in an interview on the eve of his Cannes premiere, 'a collective effort' and a truly international creation. In the film, Ibrahim plays Oluwaseyi, a youngster stranded in India after an injury stalled his dream of building a career in football. Battling loneliness, depression, financial deprivation and racism, Oluwaseyi finds solace in the arms of a woman (played by Geeta Doshi), who is haunted by her past. Kokob, grandson of a priest from the Ethiopian Orthodox Church, brings his awareness of Christian imagery and African folklore to the film, in addition to his observations of Hindu iconography. Oluwaseyi is Christian. A painting of Jesus' mother, Mary, is given prominence, while the rosary is a constant presence. In his desperation to repair mind and body, Oluwaseyi turns to a healing tradition from his homeland, amalgamating it with a belief articulated by an elderly local who sculpts Durga idols - the common factor in both is faith in the power and divinity of clay. Indian filmmakers have often been guilty of stereotyping and exoticising people of Africa, on rare occasions when they have been represented on screen here. Sudani from Nigeria, a 2018 Malayalam hit directed by Zakariya Mohammed, is an uncommon example of Indian cinema featuring an important African character portrayed with empathy. That film was charming, but it steered clear of the racism prevalent in India. In A Doll Made Up of Clay, Kokob boldly addresses this truth despite his fondness for Kolkata, which he now calls 'my second home', and India, which he describes as 'the home of cinema'. He is conscious of the difference between his own experience of the country, as a light-complexioned African, in contrast with Ibrahim, whose black skin and Muslim name have made him the target of prejudice. His film, Kokob said, 'is 80% Ibrahim's story, and 20% fiction'. The overlap between the pain of an actual person and a scripted version of him is mirrored by cinematographer Vinod Kumar's frames capturing a desolate, muddied Kolkata, and the poignance conveyed by sound designer Soham Pal, along with music composer Himangshu Saikia. The film urges us to introspect, even while being a cause for celebration since it showcases SRFTI's - and India's - laudable effort to nurture and partner with global talent. 'At this time full of conflict,' Kokob told me, 'it's an awesome feeling that as people from four different countries, we have come together for art. The world is going through a hard time, but we have become one for cinema.' (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this column are that of the writer. The facts and opinions expressed here do not reflect the views of Elevate your knowledge and leadership skills at a cost cheaper than your daily tea. What's slowing Indian IT's AI deals? The answer is hidden in just two words. Jolt to Çelebi could turn a big gain for this Indian firm that once had deep Turkish ties Nestlé India's outgoing CEO Narayanan weathered the Maggi storm; Tiwary must tackle slowing growth Uncle Sam vs. Microsoft: Which is a safer bet to park money? ONGC squandered its future once. Can it be different this time? Will revised economic capital framework lead to higher RBI dividend to govt? These large- and mid-cap stocks can give more than 30% return in 1 year, according to analysts Buy, Sell or Hold: Emkay Global upgrades SAIL to buy; YES Securities sees 13% upside in VA Tech Wabag Railways stocks: Time to be contrarian; will bearish analysts go wrong again? 6 stocks, 2 with buy recos, 4 with sell recos
New Indian Express
24-05-2025
- Entertainment
- New Indian Express
Why filmmakers can't do without Cannes
I first met independent Assamese filmmaker Rima Das in 2017 at the Marché du Film or Cannes Film Market, when her second feature, Village Rockstars, was featured in the 'HAF Goes To Cannes' initiative. Having been part of the Work In Progress Lab of Hong Kong-Asia Film Financing Forum (HAF), it had made its way to the market's prestigious platform which provided Das the opportunity to look for post-production funds and pitch to sales agents and other festivals. Goes To Cannes, one of the tailor-made official programmes at the Cannes Film Market, aims to discover promising, new-generation talents through their works-in-progress, selected and curated by partner festivals like the HAF. Thanks to it, not only did Das get a great mentor in the famous editor, Jacques Comets, who guided her with the first cut of Village Rockstars, but found the world opening its door for her modest indie. About a free-spirited and rebellious 10-year-old village girl Dhunu who dreams of owning a guitar and makes herself Styrofoam one till she gets a real one, the film played at hundreds of international festivals thanks to the initial exposure at Cannes. At Toronto and San Sebastian, it was the first film from Northeast India to be featured in the official selection. It won the National Award for the best film in 2018 and went on to represent India at the Oscars. This year, the debut feature of Tribeny Rai—a Satyajit Ray Film and Television Institute graduate—Shape of Momo was showcased under the same section. Rai is from Sikkim and her Nepali-language film is set in her home state. She was looking for gap-financing, post-production funds and interactions with sales agents and festival programmers. Whether Shape of Momo will also follow the same trajectory of success as Das's film can't quite be predicted. But what's amply clear is the significance of the market for independent Indian filmmakers trying to strike their own course in the international arena, away from the claptrap and constraints of commercial Indian cinema.
New Indian Express
20-05-2025
- Politics
- New Indian Express
'Lights, camera, construction!' say students protesting poor infrastructure at film institute in Arunachal Pradesh
NEW DELHI: Protesting against the crude infrastructure and lack of basic amenities, students of the inaugural batch of the Film and Television Institute (FTI) in Arunachal Pradesh have been boycotting classes and any kind of academic activity since May 15. Presently attached to the Satyajit Ray Film and Television Institute (SFRTI) in Kolkata, which falls under the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, it is set to become India's third FTI in the future. The Institute is located in Jollang-Rakap, 24 kms away from the capital Itanagar. This is the second major protest this month. 'We decided to halt all academic activity since May 15. This is to demand urgent action to restore dignity, safety and basic infrastructure,' they said in a joint statement. TNIE interacted with the protesting students, who were angered by the administration's inaction. They have paid Rs 1,20,000 for the first semester. A few have even resigned from jobs to pursue their passion for films. A total of 45 students are pursuing these 2-year Diploma courses - Screen Acting, Documentary Cinema and Screen Writing here. Five students belong to Arunachal Pradesh while the rest are from Delhi, Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Himachal Pradesh, Kerala, Hyderabad and Maharashtra.
India Today
20-05-2025
- Entertainment
- India Today
Satyajit Ray film institute student at Cannes La Cinef: Want to be voice for Africans
A filmmaking African student, a zero-budget film, a chance encounter with a footballer, who became the lead, and then an entry into Cannes' La Cinef selection - that's how a dream became reality for Kokob Gebrehaweria. The Ethiopian student from Satyajit Ray Film and Television Institute is at Cannes 2025 with his film 'A Clay Made Up of Clay.' In an exclusive chat with India Today, he spoke about his struggles and how he wants to be a voice for Africans through his shared that it all started with a long-take exercise in college where he had to helm a project. "It was an important one, and as an African, I wanted to make a story about the people there. It was a tough challenge, but I also wanted to have an African actor. And one day, while I was out with a friend, I met this man from Nigeria, Ibrahim. We got talking, and I found out he was in Kolkata to play football. I narrated my idea to him, and while he was apprehensive, he decided to do it for fun," the filmmaker long take, centred on a genocide war, was completed and submitted to various film festivals - where it received praise. Over time, Kokob and Ibrahim developed a close friendship. Ibrahim later confided in him about the injury that ended his football aspirations, how he missed home, and how he was lured to India with false promises. Despite playing passionately, he was paid poorly per match and struggled financially. His heartbreaking story inspired Kokob to create a fictional film based on his journey — and that's how 'A Doll Made Up of Clay' was "As I am an international student too, I realised how much he was missing home. He also spoke about his love for football and his love for the city, which made him pick odd jobs to survive. The film is a documentary on his life, and so many more such people. We rehearsed for 15 days and then shot the film. Also, it was a no-budget film, and hence, friends and students from different departments came together to make it. The film is about a boy who sells his father's land to come to Kolkata to pursue professional football, but a tragic injury makes him quit the game. And because he has no money, he's stuck there," Kokob shared about the added that there were seniors and mentors who had earlier been to Cannes, who guided him to enter the competition. He shared that he completed the process himself, and got selected. The filmmaker shared, "I was stunned and excited when I got the news. I cannot express in words the joy of representing India at that prestigious stage. This country is also home to me, as I have spent three years without going back to Africa. I am also proud of the fact that I will take Ethiopia to Cannes. I am so thankful to everyone involved with this film... we could pull this off only because of our love for films."advertisementWhen asked if he's evaluated what it takes to be selected at Cannes, Kokob Gebrehaweria said that foremostly, one needs to have a voice, and a very strong one. "And then a rooted story.. It's that easy. A lot of the students are scared to apply, so I will tell them to do that without fear. It's not about being selected but giving yourself a chance. Make something that's personal and very rooted, something around folk tales," he director further spoke about his aspirations and his vision with his films: "Both my works have an African connection, and I plan to have more Indo-African stories. While there are a few footballers who manage to earn well and send money back home, most of them are exploited. But given the weather, they play only half a year, and get paid per match. The ones who cannot often get into addiction. They cannot get medical help and have no money, and because they do not even know the language, they are tragically stuck. Most of them have run away from home, sold their assets. I want to be their voice and tell their stories in the hope that some organisation can come forward and help them. I may not have the financial ability to do it myself, but being an African, I want to be there for them."Talking about the Cannes La Cinef, the filmmaker shared that while he's positive about the outcome, his heart is already filled with gratitude. He also shared that he is working on another short film and plans to make a feature soon. At the film festival, he not only wishes to be recognised but also plans to network and find international producers. The director shared that he also wants to collaborate with programmers, distributors for his future projects. Kokob Gebrehaweria also shared that since he is an international student, he did not get any funds for his Cannes visit as per the policy. An agency did aid, but it was his family that supported him to be there, apart from his teachers and fellow students.
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Business Standard
20-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Business Standard
India at Cannes 2025: All about new releases, debuts, jury members and more
The French Riviera is hosting the 78th edition of the Cannes Film Festival 2025 from May 13 to May 24. India's presence at the Cannes Film Festival is still being felt at the festival in significant ways, even after not securing a place in the main competition this year. India remains a part of the festival's esteemed lineup, with significant trailer debuts at the Bharat Pavilion, red carpet appearances, student film awards, and intriguing new screenings. Cannes 2025: Payal Kapadia joins the competition jury The Palme d'Or-winning picture that made headlines last year, directed by Payal Kapadia, is back in Cannes, but this time she is on the opposite side of the table. She has received an invitation to join the main competition jury. This year, French actress Juliette Binoche leads the jury, which also includes Halle Berry, Leila Slimani, Carlos Reygadas, Alba Rohrwacher, Jeremy Strong, Dieudo Hamadi, and Hong Sangsoo. Another significant milestone for Indian participation at the pinnacle of international filmmaking has been reached with Kapadia's admission. Cannes film festival 2025: Indian Entries 1. Neeraj Ghaywan's 'Homebound', which has been chosen for the 'Un Certain Regard' section, is one among the most eagerly awaited Indian submissions at Cannes this year. Ishaan Khatter, Janhvi Kapoor, and Vishal Jethwa feature in this atmospheric drama, which marks Ghaywan's return after his highly praised debut, Masaan. On May 21, the movie is expected to be shown. Karan Johar, Somen Mishra, Marijke DeSouza, Apoorva Mehta, Adar Poonawalla, and Melita Toscan du Plantier are co-producers of the movie. 2. With the film "A Doll Made Up of Clay," India is also represented in the La Cinef section of Cannes. Works from international film schools are shown in the La Cinef section. This category will feature a student production from the Satyajit Ray Film and Television Institute (SRFTI), presenting the upcoming generation of Indian filmmakers on a distinguished international stage. 2025 Cannes film festival: 'Bharat Pavilion's film trailers and launches Earlier this week, the Bharat Pavilion in Cannes was formally launched, providing a venue for networking, cross-cultural interaction, and the display of new Indian ideas. Shekhar Kapur, the director, and actor Anupam Kher attended the opening ceremony. In addition, Kapur discussed India's Creative Economy: In Cinema and Beyond and released the poster for the next International Film Festival of India (IFFI). Several trailer releases, particularly from the Marathi film industry, have taken place in the Pavilion. • Friday (May 16)- Films like Snow Flower, Khalid Ka Shivaji, Sthal – The Match, and Juna Furniture had their trailers opened. • Saturday (May 17)- It featured teasers for The Love Ritual by American Underdog by Vishy Ayyar, Devendra Jadhav, and Tanvi: The Great, directed by Anupam Kher. • Sunday (May 18)- Trailers for Lost and Found in Kumbh, Mahamantra, Bhagodia, Echoes of Valour, and Charak are set to be displayed. • Monday (May 19)- An additional launch includes Murder too Close – Love too Far, Ashva: A White Horse's Neigh, Sabar Bonda, and Baksho Bondi. 2025 Cannes: Guneet Monga launches scholarship for women producers Under the banner of Women in Film India (WIF, India), the Indian branch of the international Women in Film network, award-winning producer Guneet Monga has started a special program at Cannes. The Marché du Film's recently launched Cannes Producers' Scholarship aims to link mid-career female producers with international business executives. In an effort to promote visibility, mentorship, and opportunity for Indian women in film, producers Rucha Pathak, Rabia Chopra, Tillotama Shome, and Dimpy Agrawal joined Monga at the announcement. Notable Indian celebs 'debut' at Cannes film festival 2025 This year, a number of popular Indian celebrities are attending the 78th Cannes Film Festival 2025 for the first time. Here are some of the new Indian celebs making their Cannes 2025 debuts, ranging from well-known industry icons to upcoming rising stars: Sharmila Tagore Sharmila Tagore, a veteran actor, went for the screening of Satyajit Ray's 1970 film, Aranyer Din Ratri at the Cannes Film Festival 2025. The Bengali film, Days and Nights in the Forest, was restored in English by American filmmaker Wes Anderson, and its 4K version was screened at the Cannes Classics section of the film festival. Simi Garewal In honor of the restored version of the classic Satyajit Ray movie, Aranyer Din Ratri, in which she appeared, veteran actor and talk show host Simi Garewal is visiting the festival this year. On Monday, May 19, a special screening of The Film Foundation was scheduled. Alia Bhatt At Cannes, Bollywood star Alia Bhatt is expected to make her much awaited debut. Her first appearance on the red carpet at the esteemed festival is eagerly awaited by her fans. Nitanshi Goel This year, Nitanshi Goel, the Laapataa Ladies star, also debuted at Cannes. This past Friday, the young actor, who was representing L'Oréal Paris, attracted attention on the red carpet and gave India's attendance at the festival a more youthful feel. Aastha Gill On Friday, singer Aastha Gill made a stunning entrance on the red carpet at the 78th Cannes Film Festival. Gill grabbed the attention of guests by wearing a shining star yet sophisticated outfit that demonstrated both her musical prowess and her fashion-forward personality. Shalini Passi Bollywood Wives' Fabulous Lives fame, social activist and artist Shalini Passi will be making her Cannes debut this year. She will be joined on the carpet by Padma Shri winner Paresh Maity, one of the most well-known contemporary artists in India. Parul Gulati Parul Gulati, an actress and businesswoman, made her red carpet debut at the international premiere of Eddington, directed by Ari Aster. On the other hand, Parul owned a company that sold hair extensions. She looked elegant in a garment that was specially created for her. Notably, she designed her own dress, which was made entirely of hair. Is Nancy Tyagi's outfit copied at the Cannes film festival 2025? Nancy, an influencer-designer, walked the red carpet at Cannes 2025 wearing a minidress adorned with pearls. The outfit included structural panels, crystal fringes, and silver-beige tones. She wore it with a long-trail cape with puffy shoulders. She added that the dress's creation took a whole month. Meanwhile, on May 18 Neha Bhasin, a singer and former Bigg Boss OTT contestant, has accused Tyagi of fabricating her Cannes 2025 costume design. Nancy claimed to have made the dress herself, but Neha and a fashion store in Mumbai said she had purchased it. The Source Bombay's owner, Surbhi Gupta, told The Free Press Journal that Nancy Tyagi had indeed purchased the outfit from them. Gupta added that shortly before Cannes 2025, Nancy paid ₹25,000 for the dress. On May 18, Neha posted side-by-side pictures of herself and Nancy wearing what appeared to be the same corset on her Instagram Stories, highlighting the problem. Cannes film festival 2025: When and where to watch? On May 13 at 7:15 PM local time (10:45 PM IST), the Cannes Film Festival 2025 opening ceremony featured the Palme d'Or d'Honneur. Live updates, behind-the-scenes pictures, and real-time red carpet video will also be available on the festival's official Instagram and X (previously Twitter) profiles. Live streaming of the entire event will be accessible 24/7 via: • The Festival de Cannes official YouTube channel • The official Festival de Cannes website • Mubi • FilmyDoo (from 2:30 PM IST for Indian users).
