It was an
exciting and significant event for strengthening the relationship between
Iranian and Indian cinema! The collaboration between the General Department of
Media and Cyberspace Cooperation of the Islamic Culture and Relations
Organization and the Iranian Culture House in Mumbai during the Fajr decade of
the Islamic Revolution in Tehran was a great platform for cultural exchange.
Having
representatives from key Indian film festivals including the Chairman of the 19th
edition of Ayodhya Film Festival as well as the Chairman & Founder of the 13th
edition of the Lakecity International Film Festival Prof. Dr. Mohan Das, as
well as the Festival Director of Chennai International Film Festival AVM Shanmugam attend the 43rd Fajr International
Film Festival provided an excellent opportunity for networking, dialogue, and
the potential for future collaborations in film production and distribution
between the two countries. This type of initiative can help foster mutual
understanding, showcase diverse perspectives, and promote the global
recognition of Iranian cinema.
By focusing
on "Effective and Influential Storytelling of Iran and the Islamic
Revolution," the initiative seems to be not only about film as an art form
but also about conveying important historical and cultural narratives. These
meetings and work programs likely provided a platform for both Iranian and
Indian film industry professionals to explore how they can collaborate on
storytelling that resonates on both a national and international level. By
discussing shared values and interests—particularly around themes like history,
revolution, and culture—they could forge stronger partnerships for producing
and distributing films that highlight Iran’s rich cinematic heritage and the
broader Islamic world.
It’s also
great that the meetings went beyond just networking, focusing on practical
steps that could result in more tangible outcomes, such as co-productions,
knowledge-sharing, and distribution deals.
Moreover, the
presentation of awards by both award-winning film directors and the directors
of Indian film festivals highlights the growing appreciation and visibility of
Iranian films in the Indian film industry. It also reinforces the strength of
the cultural ties between the two countries, showcasing the acknowledgment and
respect that Iranian cinema has earned on an international stage.
These awards
not only honour the work of Iranian filmmakers but also serve to spotlight the
unique narratives and artistic approaches that Iranian cinema brings to the
global conversation. The collaboration between the Iranian Culture House in
Mumbai and Indian film festivals creates a stronger foundation for future
exchanges and sets the stage for more Iranian films to be presented and
celebrated in India, furthering the exchange of ideas between the two film
industries.
 |
| Prof. Dr. Mohan Das |
This delegation,
consisting of AVM Shanmugam, general
Secretary of the Chennai International Film Festival, India, Prof. Dr. Mohan
Das, Chairman & Founder of the Lake City film Festival in Mumbai, Arhaan
Jamal, a writer and young director of Indian cinema, along with Zakir Hossein
Sheikh, a cinema expert at the Iranian Cultural House in Mumbai, and Mehdi
Salehi, Head of the Radio, Television and Press Co-operation Department of the
Islamic Culture and Relations Organization, began their program on Wednesday,
29 January 2025.
Meeting with
the Deputy Minister and Head of the Cinema Organization, meeting with Soureh
Cinema foundation officials, visiting Ghazali Cinema Town visit Salman Farsi
shoot and meet producer Mr Taheri, other important project, manager meeting
with Filmnet executives and the producer of Dolphin Boy animation film,
attending the 43rd Fajr Film Festival, interviews with various television and
other news networks, were among the programs of this delegation's trip.
In addition
to cinematic activities, visits to historical sites, including the Cinema
Museum and a trip to the historical city of Isfahan, were also on the agenda of
this delegation.
The
"Speak About Iran" initiative seems like a powerful and proactive
effort to combat the negative stereotypes and misconceptions that often
surround Iran in the international media. By inviting influential media and
cultural figures from various countries to visit Iran, the program offers them
the opportunity to experience the country first-hand, allowing them to see beyond
the headlines and gain a deeper understanding of Iran's rich history, culture,
and people.
The cultural
exchange aspect of this initiative also strengthens relationships between Iran
and other countries, helping to build mutual respect and trust. It also creates
a platform for discussing shared values, such as art, cinema, and history,
which can open doors to greater cooperation and understanding.
Promoting
cultural exchange is a powerful way to build long-term relationships. It’s also
a brilliant strategy—encouraging visitors to share authentic narratives based
on their first-hand experiences can be a game changer in addressing Iranophobia
and promoting a more accurate, nuanced view of the country. By giving these
media and cultural figures the opportunity to see Iran up close, they become
personal witnesses to its culture, heritage, and achievements, which can
challenge the often-one-sided portrayals seen in the media. Creating these
international networks has the potential to break down barriers and generate
more constructive, multifaceted discussions about Iran’s role in the global
community.
