RAIPUR: CMS VATAVARAN, in collaboration with the U.S. Consulate General, Mumbai, and in partnership with the Amity School of Communication, Amity University Chhattisgarh, successfully organized a two-day 'Social Impact Filmmaking Workshop' under the 'Green Frames: VATAVARAN Short Film Workshops, Competition, and Festival' on October 11-12, 2023. The workshop drew participation from 77 enthusiastic individuals, including youth, mass media students, and members of NGOs and civil society, representing various regions of Madhya Pradesh, Odisha, and Chhattisgarh, including the districts of Bijapur, Bastar, and Dantewada.

The event's inaugural ceremony was graced by HE Mr Mike Hankey, U.S. Consul General, Mumbai; Prof. (Dr.) Piyush Kant Pandey, Vice-Chancellor of Amity University Chhattisgarh, Raipur; Mr Rob Anderson, Cultural Attache, U.S. Consulate General, Mumbai; Ms Almitra Kika, Public Diplomacy Specialist, U.S. Consulate General, Mumbai; and Mr Sabyesachi Bharti, Deputy Director of CMS Vatavaran.

Mike Hankey, Consul General, U.S. Consulate General, Mumbai, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, "As advocates for artistic expression and environmental awareness, we are delighted to support this unique workshop, empowering young minds to blend creativity with essential environmental messages. This collaboration underlines our commitment to strengthening bonds between the people of the United States and India while addressing critical global issues."

Prof. (Dr.) Piyush Kant Pandey, Vice-Chancellor, Amity University Chhattisgarh, Raipur, stated, "We are delighted to be part of this transformative initiative. The Social Impact Filmmaking Workshop aligns perfectly with Amity University Chhattisgarh's commitment to fostering creativity, innovation, and environmental consciousness among our students and the broader community. Through storytelling, we aim to inspire positive change and promote a sustainable future."

Sabyesachi Bharti, Dy. Director, CMS Vatavaran, in his welcome address, emphasized the significance of the workshop in empowering budding filmmakers to create impactful environmental narratives, stating, 'Filmmaking is a powerful tool that can inspire change. Through this workshop, we aim to nurture the next generation of storytellers who can make a positive impact on our environment and society.'

Rob Anderson, Cultural Attaché, U.S. Consulate General, Mumbai, stated, "Storytelling transcends borders and languages; it's a universal language that has the power to ignite change. This workshop, by nurturing creative storytelling, is sowing the seeds for a greener and more sustainable future. Each film has the potential to be a catalyst for environmental advocacy and inspire audiences to take action."

"Collaboration is the cornerstone of effective action in addressing our pressing environmental challenges. Together, through shared knowledge and collective determination, we can make significant strides towards a sustainable future." - Almitra Kika, Public Diplomacy Specialist, U.S. Consulate General, Mumbai The workshop featured Ritesh Taksande, recognized as one of the country's leading Mojo Educators, currently serving as the Course Director for Film Orientation Courses and Mobile Journalism Courses at SKIFT Initiative by the Film and Television Institute of India, Pune. The workshop encompassed five technical sessions, including Fundamentals of Mojo Film Production, Planning for Green Frames Film Production, Film Shooting, Film Editing, and Film Submission and Presentation.

The Raipur workshop is part of a series of workshops planned across India as a prelude to the grand 'Green Frames: VATAVARAN Short Film Festival' scheduled for February 2024. The festival will showcase the winning films from the competition, further advancing the cause of environmental preservation and climate advocacy.

Dr. K.N. Kishore, HoI, Amity School of Communication, and convenor of the workshop, extended his vote of thanks. B.N. Panda, Assistant Professor, Amity School of Communication, served as the Coordinator and Organizing Secretary of the workshop. The Deputy PVC (Academic), Prof. (Dr.) Sumita Dave, Deputy PVC (Administration), Prof. (Dr.) Surendra Rahamatkar, along with the Registrar, Deans, Directors, Heads of Institutions, faculty, and staff members, graced this mega workshop with their presence.