LAHORE:A two-day ‘Dekho Film Festival’, jointly organised by the Punjab University Department of Film and Broadcasting and Alhamra Arts Council got underway with an impressive opening ceremony here on Wednesday.
PU VC Prof Dr M Ali, renowned film director Syed Noor, Chairperson Department of Film and Broadcasting Dr Lubna Zaheer, Executive Director Alhamra M Nawaz Gondal, film producer Shehzad Rafiq, writer Amna Mufti, faculty members, and a large number of students also attended the opening ceremony.
Addressing the opening ceremony, Prof Dr M Ali said that film festivals provide students with valuable opportunities to learn from leading figures of the industry. He expressed gratitude to Syed Noor for offering free professional training to Punjab University students at his studio. He emphasised that the era of rote learning is over and that it is essential to develop practical skills among students.
Syed Noor said that young people are about to usher in a new era in the film industry. He stated that film goes beyond life itself and represents a world of imagination. He encouraged students to engage in maximum practical work to promote professionalism among them. He added that the ‘Dekho Film Festival’ represents a culture of learning, bringing together youth and renowned personalities of the film industry. On the occasion, Syed Noor also announced free hands-on training for students using high-end cameras and lenses.
Shehzad Rafiq said that the Pakistan Film Producers Association is providing a platform for young people so that they can become a driving force in the revival of the film industry. He announced arrangements for funding students’ film theses and uploading their creative work on digital platforms.
Amna Mufti said that truth is the most important element in writing. She appreciated the department for organising a successful activity to promote the film industry. Dr Lubna Zaheer said that the ‘Dekho Film Festival’ has proven to be an excellent platform for enhancing students’ creative abilities. She informed that 175 short films, documentaries, and music videos were received for the festival.
During the festival, students presented outstanding musical performances, while screenings of shortlisted short films and documentaries were also held. Panel discussions and seminars were organised as part of the event. The festival will continue today as well.
