A century-old sabha in the city has adapted itself in accordance with the changing technology.
The Rasika Ranjana Sabha, which was founded in 1916, is reputed for having staged various plays, carnatic concerts.
In its new endeavour, the sabha has taken the initiative for screening short films. A series of short films were screened at the sabha on Friday, bringing much delight to the film-goers, drama artistes, and script writers.
The short films included Zero Kilometre , Nadanthathu Ennanna , Oru Nimidam , Tamizh Ini , Kadagam,China Tea , and Pudhiyavan .
Explaining the objective of the maiden attempt, N. Sekar, secretary of the sabha, said that the effort was not an easy cakewalk, as it involved certain procedures particularly in obtaining the permission from the producers and other competent agencies. He said the short film provided a good platform for many young directors and script writers to prove their acumen in the art of film making.
Citing a specific example, he explained how a young producer, through Youtube, was able to climb the ladder of repute in recent times. He said the effort would motivate the viewers either to produce films or to extend support to the film industry in one way or other.
Short films conveyed a specific theme such as ills of smoking or the need for conservation of Tamil heritage, thanks to the talents of young directors and artistes. He said that the event would be organised periodically. In this context, he recalled the efforts made by the Cine Forum, Tiruchi, of the English Department of St. Joseph's College decades ago besides the Nimai Ghosh Film Society in the city.
A review of the films was taken up at the end of the show. Many viewers expressed their happiness over the new effort by the sabha.
Paranjothi, one of the viewers, said that several documentary films and films from other languages were available for public screening.
M.S. Mohamad Masthan, general secretary of Tiruchi District Nataka Nadigargal Sangam, who himself had produced a short film screened on the occasion, explained the difficulties in producing a short film. The screening of the films at the Sabha, he said, would go a long way in encouraging the artistes and producers.
Rajasekar, a viewer, said that it was a great opportunity for the film lovers.
