Pune: Union Minister of Information and Broadcasting, Railways, and Electronics and Information Technology, Ashwini Vaishnaw, inaugurated a cutting-edge auditorium at the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII), Pune, during his first visit to the esteemed institution. The event was marked by a ribbon-cutting ceremony and the traditional lighting of the lamp, attended by students and faculty.
In an open forum following the inauguration, Vaishnaw outlined his vision for elevating FTII to global prominence. He highlighted India’s rich cinematic legacy and heritage as a robust foundation for achieving excellence. Addressing questions from students and faculty, he elaborated on the proposed deemed university status for FTII, emphasizing the institution’s potential to contribute significantly to the creative economy.
The newly inaugurated 586-seat auditorium boasts state-of-the-art features, including a cinema projector, advanced PA systems for stage performances, and a Dolby Atmos surround sound system. Its standout feature is a horizontally movable screen, measuring 50 feet in width and 20 feet in height, which can transform the space into a cinema theatre with ease. Operated by remote control, this pioneering design is believed to be the first of its kind and has been patented by FTII.
Vaishnaw remarked that the auditorium would enhance FTII’s pedagogy while serving as a significant cultural hub for Pune. “This facility is not just an infrastructure addition but a testament to the institute’s commitment to innovation and excellence in cinema education,” he said.
During his visit, Vaishnaw emphasized strengthening career opportunities for students and fostering deeper industry linkages. Drawing parallels with the success of Gati Shakti Vishwavidyalaya, he envisioned FTII as a key talent provider for global players in the film and creative industries.
He further highlighted the importance of India’s creative economy, stating, “With the talent and ecosystem of FTII, we can become a major player on the global stage.”
The Union Minister toured various facilities of FTII, engaging in discussions with faculty and students. His visit reinforced the government’s commitment to nurturing talent and enhancing the infrastructure and capabilities of premier institutions like FTII.
The inauguration of the state-of-the-art auditorium signals a significant step in positioning FTII as a world-class center for cinema education, poised to shape the future of Indian and global film industries.
