The Indian Express Group has launched Screen Academy, a not-for-profit initiative that will offer postgraduate fellowships to outstanding film students across India. Backed by the Lodha Foundation, the Academy aims to support financially constrained students nominated by top institutions like FTII, SRFTI, and Whistling Woods International.
Industry stalwarts including Oscar winners Guneet Monga and Resul Pookutty, Cannes Grand Prix winner Payal Kapadia, and producer Ronnie Screwvala are on board as mentors. The initiative blends academic excellence with hands-on industry exposure through masterclasses, internships, and professional guidance.
The Academy also revives the prestigious Screen Awards, with a new Resident Critics Panel to ensure credible, merit-based recognition in cinema, theatre, music, and allied arts.
The initiative holds promise for local youth aspiring to break into mainstream cinema. With rising interest in content creation and storytelling in Bihar’s tier-2 cities, the Screen Academy could serve as a launchpad for talent beyond metro hubs. The full list of Academy members and fellowship application details are available on www.screenacademy.org, marking a new era in India’s creative economy.
