Film fest to showcase wildlife

Delhi Age, Monday, August 29, 2005

Scheduled to be held from November 21 to 24, Vatavaran, India's only environment and wildlife film festival, will have 244 film entries this year. Two new award categories have also been introduced for best animation and student films.
Announcing the festival Mr. Shyam Benegal, chairman of the nomination jury, said, "Today, documentary making has become a financially thankless job. These kind of festivals will help the documentary makers." In seven competitive categories, the award money ranges from Rs. 50,000 to 1,50,000. The organizers informed that Delhi, Tripura and Sikkim top the list in terms of the number of entries. Filmmakers from Maharashtra and Kerala have also sent their entries.
All the entries were subjected to rigorous screening process by the jury. Said Mr Benegal, "The quality of films were exceptionally good and they will help people sensitise on environmental issues." He added, " Delhi is not the only place to be sensitized. We have to target non-metros also. The festival is a wonderful way to reach the masses." Addressing the media Marc Runacres, Deputy High Commissioner of British High commission informed, "We have instituted four fellowships in the field of environment,"
Organized by the Centre for Media Studies, the festival would be supported by ministry of forest and environment. Said Dr. Bhaskar Rao, "It is the only film festival in India featuring films screening, symposia, exhibition and film bazaar,"
Apart from the competitive categories, the festival has some special screenings including Asian panorama and retrospective of filmmakers. Along with the festival International Federation of Environment Journalists Congress will also take place.
Eminent environment journalist Darryl D'monte informed that the theme of the conference will be "Human-wildlife Conflicts and Sustainable Development." John Vidal, environment editor, the Guardian and CSE chairperson Sunita Narain will also participate in the festival.