Ashwini Vaishnaw inaugurates FTII’s state-of-the-art theatre

Union Minister of Information and Broadcasting Ashwini Vaishnaw at FTII, Pune
| Photo Credit: ANI

Union Minister of Information and Broadcasting Ashwini Vaishnaw visited the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII) in Pune on Saturday and inaugurated a cinema theatre-cum-auditorium. Following the inauguration, he interacted with students and faculty in an open forum.

Aiming to propel FTII further on the global stage, Vaishnaw said, “Our legacy and heritage provide a firm foundation to embark on the journey of further excellence.” During the forum, he addressed a wide range of questions from students and faculty, particularly regarding the proposed deemed university status for the institute. He also shared his vision for cinema education in India, emphasizing the need to strengthen students’ career prospects and foster greater linkages with the industry.

Union Minister of Information and Broadcasting Ashwini Vaishnaw at FTII, Pune
| Photo Credit:
ANI

The minister highlighted the significance of the new auditorium, noting that it would not only serve as a valuable asset for FTII’s pedagogy but also become a prominent feature in Pune’s rich cultural landscape.

The 586-seat auditorium is equipped with modern amenities, including a cinema projector, a PA system for stage performances, and a state-of-the-art Dolby Atmos surround sound system. One of its most distinctive features is an innovative, horizontally movable screen measuring 50 feet in width and 20 feet in height.

This cutting-edge screen can be effortlessly adjusted using a remote control, enabling a seamless transformation of the auditorium into a cinema theatre. This pioneering feature is believed to be the first of its kind, setting a new benchmark for versatility and flexibility in auditorium design.