The vibrant city of Bengaluru is gearing up for a grand celebration of cinematic talent as it prepares to host the much-anticipated Teen Indie Film Awards (TIFA) 2024 from March 14 to 17. The excitement is palpable as this event, organized by the students of R.V. University, promises to bring together an impressive array of more than 300 films from six continents, representing the creative visions of teenage and young adult filmmakers from around the globe.
This year’s festival is particularly significant as it marks the participation of Australia, drawing attention from the Australian Consulate-General in Bengaluru. Both Consul General Hilary McGeachy and Deputy Consul General Hyung Min Kim will grace the event, underscoring the festival’s growing international stature.
Among the Australian contributions, 14 films will ignite the screens, with The Song Keepers, directed by Naina Sen, set to captivate audiences as the opening feature. TIFA 2024’s mission to illuminate the rich diversity of storytelling is epitomized by these selections, aimed to foster cultural exchange and build collaborative bridges between India and Australia.
The fabric of the eminent festival is woven with a variety of tapestries – panel discussions addressing contemporary themes in cinema, film-themed book launches, and masterclasses hosted by seasoned industry professionals. The educational dimension is a cornerstone of the event, with R.V. University officials including Vice Chancellor YSR Murthy and Piyush Roy, Dean, School of Film, Media and Creative Arts, acknowledging TIFA’s contribution to interdisciplinary collaboration.
The festival also serves as a crucible for inclusive and cross-departmental involvement, with students from varying faculties joining forces to coordinate the prestigious event. N. Vidya Shankar, the festival director of the Bangalore International Film Festival and chief guest for TIFA 2024, eloquently spoke on the role of cinema, asserting that “The contemporary world is better represented and understood through cinema than any other medium. Unlike literature, which facilitates contemplation, cinema allows for immediate expression and understanding of a society’s core issues.”
Shankar expressed concern over the lack of film schools in India, and highlighted the vital role that platforms like TIFA play in propelling young filmmakers into the international limelight. His message was clear – such initiatives are essential in cultivating a new generation of storytellers.
A wealth of creativity awaits participants, with the festival showcasing an extensive array of films over four days, and including 25 eminent speakers. The jury comprises a panel of established names such as film critic Rahul Desai, Nagaland’s actor-director Tiakumzuk Aier, senior lecturer at Teesside University, U.K., Ian Fenton; and notable speakers like documentary filmmaker Tarini Manchanda, visual development artist Rupali Gatti, director and editor Rahul Rawail, and climate fiction writer Evan Tims.
Empowering young talent and stimulating dialogues about the progression and footprint of cinema in today’s society are at the heart of TIFA 2024’s objectives. The detailed schedule is spread across various venues in Bengaluru to accommodate the extensive program.
Prospective participants and attendees can secure delegate passes online, and on-spot registrations will be available to ensure no one misses out on the chance to become a part of this extraordinary event.
With a bustling atmosphere and an eclectic mix of activities, the Teen Indie Film Awards are set to make a memorable impression on Bengaluru’s cultural landscape, inviting film enthusiasts and professionals alike to immerse themselves in the realm of storytelling and cinematic artistry. To delve into the world of TIFA 2024 and for further registration information, visit rvu.edu.in/tifa-2024.
