In a significant development for the Indian film industry, celebrated actor R Madhavan has been appointed as the new President of the Film & Television Institute of India (FTII), Pune. This news comes shortly after Madhavan’s directorial debut, “Rocketry: The Nambi Effect,” earned him the prestigious National Award for Best Film. He takes the reins from acclaimed filmmaker Shekhar Kapur.
The announcement was made by the Minister of Information & Broadcasting, Anurag Thakur, who took to social media platform X (formerly Twitter) to share the news. He conveyed his “heartiest congratulations” to Madhavan and expressed confidence in his ability to lead FTII to new heights. Thakur wrote, “I’m sure that your vast experience & strong ethics will enrich this institute, bring positive changes, & take it to a higher level. My best wishes to you.”
Madhavan, in response, humbly accepted the honor and thanked Minister Anurag Thakur. He responded on X, saying, “Thank you so very much for the honor and kind wishes @ianuragthakur Ji. I will do my very best to live up to all the expectations. (namaste emojis)”
The official Instagram handle of FTII also shared the announcement, underscoring the significance of this transition.
Established in 1960, FTII, located in Pune, Maharashtra, operates under the purview of the Central Government’s Information & Broadcasting Ministry. It offers a wide range of courses in various aspects of filmmaking, including film editing, direction, cinematography, audiography, acting, art direction, and computer graphics and animation.
Shekhar Kapur, a renowned filmmaker, served as the last President of FTII. Over the years, this prestigious institution has been led by luminaries such as actor Roshan Taneja, cartoonist RK Laxman, and filmmakers Shyam Benegal, Mrinal Sen, and Mahesh Bhatt, among others.
Notably, R Madhavan’s appointment to the position of FTII President adds another illustrious name to the list of accomplished individuals associated with the institution. The FTII has produced a host of successful alumni, including actors like Jaya Bachchan, Shatrughan Sinha, Naseeruddin Shah, Rajkummar Rao, and filmmakers like Sanjay Leela Bhansali.
R Madhavan, primarily known for his work in Tamil and Hindi cinema, made his Tamil film debut in Mani Ratnam’s romantic masterpiece, “Alaipayuthey,” in 2000. He ventured into Bollywood the following year, starring alongside Dia Mirza in the cult romantic film, “Rehna Hai Terre Dil Mein.” His recent directorial venture, “Rocketry: The Nambi Effect,” where he portrayed former ISRO scientist Nambi Narayanan, received widespread acclaim and earned him his first National Award for Best Film.
Madhavan’s appointment as FTII President is expected to bring fresh perspectives and expertise to this esteemed institution, fostering a new generation of talented filmmakers and artists in India.
Sources By Agencies
