MONDAY, JUNE 17, 2024
Team Herald
In a momentous occasion for Indian cinema, two emerging filmmakers from Goa have made their mark on the international stage at the Cannes Film Festival, held annually in France. Akshay Parvatkar and Suyash Kamat, representing the vibrant talent pool of Goa, have garnered attention and accolades for their respective contributions to the world of cinema.
Akshay Parvatkar, an alumnus of the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII), was selected for the prestigious Cannes Film Festival as part of a fellowship program initiated by Walkers & Co in collaboration with Film Companion. His participation in "The Walkers Project" aimed to empower emerging filmmakers to craft stories that ignite social change and foster inclusivity. Mentored by industry stalwarts including Oscar-winning producer Guneet Monga, Akshay embarked on a journey to create a short film centered around the ethos of "Keep Walking". His experience at Cannes was enriched through guidance from luminaries such as Anu Rangachari, Deepti D’Cunha, and Christian Jeune from the Cannes Film Festival.
Meanwhile, Suyash Kamat, a promising cinematography student from the Satyajit Ray Film and Television Institute (SRFTI), had the honor of gracing the red carpet at Cannes as part of the team behind the film "All We Imagine as Light". Directed by Payal Kapadia, this cinematic masterpiece has been selected for the prestigious main competition section, marking a significant milestone as the first Indian entry in this category in three decades. Kamat played a vital role as the Director's Assistant and Second Unit Cinematographer, contributing his expertise to a film now in contention for the coveted Palme d'Or.
The achievements of Akshay Parvatkar and Suyash Kamat underscore the immense talent and potential within the Indian film industry, particularly from the state of Goa. Their presence at Cannes not only celebrates their individual accomplishments but also serves as a beacon of inspiration for aspiring filmmakers across the nation. As their journeys continue to unfold, Goa eagerly awaits the cinematic treasures they will unveil, further enriching the global landscape of cinema.
