As a filmmaker, or may be more as a writer, Lohitadas was instrumental in bringing a new sensibility to Malayalam mainstream film. Taking the legacy of M.T. Vasudevan Nair-Padmarajan creed of films to another realm, Lohithadas addressed the complicated social situations of contemporary life through his works.
To honour the filmmaker, the Maharaja’s Youth Theatre (MYTH) and Maharaja’s College Alumni Association is organising a three-day festival of short films from across the country. The Lohitadas National Short Film Festival got a formal launch with actor Dileep inaugurating its official website (www.mythkerala.com) last week.
Organisers of the festival claimed that LNSFF has been planned as a major event in South India.
Many universities will be participating in the competition. Works of renowned filmmakers will be screened as part of the festival.
In the campus film competition, awards will be presented to the best director, best scenarist, best cameraman and best actors (male and female).
The awards to the new stars on the horizon of filmdom will comprise of a statuette, instituted in memory of Lohitadas, and a cash award of Rs. 1 lakh.
Other events being held in connection with the festival are poster designing competitions, short film competitions, commemorative sessions on Lohitadas, where people who were part of his illustrious career will pay tributes, and music nights. The awards will be presented at a colourful ceremony on the last day of the festival, which will be attended by the leading names in the South Indian film industry, said the organisers.
Writer and former teacher at Maharaja’s College C.R. Omanakuttan is the festival director.
The last date for sending entries for the short film competition is September 15.
Details about the competition and festival are available at www.mythkerala.com; contact: 99958 48509 or 99619 41770.
