A Round Table Conference on
Challenges & Opportunities in Science Film-Making in India
19 – 20 July 2014
Conference Hall Keys Hotel Opposite Fire Brigade, Housing Trivandrum, Thiruvananthapuram, 695001 Phone: 0471 394 4100
BOOK OF ABSTRACTS
Vigyan Prasar Department of Science & Technology, Govt. of India A 50, Sector 62, Noida - 201 309 (UP) http://www.vigyanprasar.gov.in
Kerala State Chalachitra Academy 7th International Documentary and Short Film Festival of Kerala Sasthamangalam, Trivandum - 695010 (Kerala) http://www.iffk.in, http://www.keralafilm.com
*Full text of all papers as submitted by the authors is available in the CD
Book of Abstract: Round Table Conference on Challenges in Science Film Making in India 19-20 July 2014, Trivandrum 1
Round Table deliberations towards a Roadmap to Promote Science Films in India
Dear Invitee
Greetings from Vigyan Prasar. Thank you for your attention on this 2 – page note. The points presented are aligned with the output expected out of the deliberations; albeit only indicative. The Roundtable invites you to deliberate on aspects you feel are important, essentially going beyond these.
Please accept a copy of abstracts submitted by all invitees. We hold you in highest esteem.
Content
The context: Dynamics of development context & the centrality of scientific temper Optimize output / outcome through film – based communication: Four thrust areas Eight main and related cross cutting themes for deliberation
The context: Dynamics of development context & the centrality of scientific temper
The process of development in India is determined by several factors. These include the form and function of technologies, regulations, fiscal and non – fiscal measures and market dynamics. Yet another aspect is the levels of preparedness of her citizens to comprehend
A. Pathways of development, B. Their implications for quality of life & C. Importantly mechanisms to communicate in a timely manner to enhance their stake in development, exert their thinking about appropriateness of options and knowledge systems for holistic and inclusive growth.
These three elements are central to robust communication pathways that receive and deliver information in a timely manner. These have to be integrated in communication systems with an equal emphasis on methods of science to stimulate and foster scientific thinking / temper to sustain well informed action. Films on science & technology can contribute significantly to this process. Such institutions as the CSIR-NISCAIR, CEC, NCSTC, Vigyan Prasar, Rajya Sabha TV and individuals active in this area recognize the versatile nature of this tool to serve the communication agenda. These could help D. Enhance awareness E. Propose preventive and remedial actions & F. Stimulate thinking and prompt well informed action
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Optimize output / outcome through film – based communication: Four thrust areas
The above stated institutions recognize the need to significantly upscale film – based initiatives and in this process optimize
1. Spread and depth of messages to help viewers comprehend the immediate relevance of issues / options to tackle them 2. Tone of communication and not appear authoritarian 3. Visual appeal for effective communication & 4. Budget.
Eight main and related cross cutting themes for deliberation
The present roundtable proposes to deliberate on the dynamics of the four thrust areas in India with special reference to
I. Preparedness of Science film makers II. Circumstances of production of science films III. Purpose and approach of science films including the need to understand viewers and the context of action that could follow IV. Hand – holding for film makers by academic and other institutions on state – of – art tools and budgets V. Engagement with scientists / science institutions VI. Appropriate tools and techniques for richness and outreach VII. Synthesis of awareness and infotainment including treatment and script & VIII. Policies and related institutional arrangements to mainstream film based communication
Some related aspects that need to be deliberated on include
1) Networking of institutions 2) Guild of science film makers / broadcasters 3) Greater access to films in remote areas 4) Studies on impact of science films in vernacular regions 5) Science film festivals / orientation programmes at regional / state levels 6) Promotion of science broadcasting / science in TV channels 7) Regular screening in colleges and schools 8) International collaborations 9) Science film repository & 10) Optimal use of new media technologies.
Team, Vigyan Prasar
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Programme Schedule
Day 1, Saturday, 19 July 2014
0930 – 1000 HRS Registration
1000 – 1045 HRS Inaugural Session
Welcome Address Mrs BINA PAUL VENUGOPAL, Deputy Director and Artistic Director, 7th IDSFFK, KSCA
Opening Remarks Mr JOSHY MATHEW, Executive Committee Member, KSCA
Introduction Dr T.V.VENKATESWARAN, Scientist F, Vigyan Prasar
Framework of the Conference Mr NIMISH KAPOOR, Scientist D, Vigyan Prasar
Inaugural Address Mr GURDEEP SINGH SAPPAL, Chief Executive Officer, Rajya Sabha Television, New Delhi
Chairman’s Remarks Mr S. PRIYADARSAN, Chairman and Festival Director, KSCA
Vote of Thanks Mr S. RAJENDRAN NAIR, Secretary and Executive Director, KSCA 1045 – 1115 HRS GROUP PHOTOGRAPH AND TEA BREAK
1115 – 1225 HRS Session 1 Chairperson: Dr T.V.VENKATESWARAN, Scientist F, Vigyan Prasar
Lead Speakers Challenges of Science Film Making – 25 minutes GAUHAR RAZA, Professor, AcSIR, Chief Scientist and Head, SCM, CSIR-NISCAIR
Discussants
TV Content Creators vs Subject Experts – 10 minutes MATIUR RAHMAN, Independent Fulltime Science Filmmaker
The Unruly Teenager! A Deeply Personal-Professional Take – 10 minutes SEEMA MURALIDHARA, Television Director-Producer –Science Communicator, Beacon Television
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Science in Action: Challenges in Telling a Dynamic Story through Visuals – 10 minutes ABHAY S.D. RAJPUT, Scientist-C, Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM), Pune
Authoritarian forms of address and Indian Science Communication – 10 minutes FATIMA NIZARUDDIN, Research Scholar, University of Westminster, United Kingdom
1220 – 1345 HRS Session 2 Chairperson: Mr MOHAN KUMAR, Head, Communications Division, Centre for Development of Imaging Technology (C-DIT)
Lead Speakers Communicating Science: A Roadmap for the Digital Age – 25 minutes INDRANIL BHTTACHARYA, Professor, Film and Television Institute of India, Pune
Collaborative communication: on evolving new strategies for production and spreading scientific knowledge using network platform – 25 minutes D. DAMODAR PRASAD, Director, Educational Multimedia Research Centre, University of Calicut
Discussants
Creating Animation Science Films for the Mass: Challenges and Prospects – 10 minutes MADHU K.S., Managing Director, Hibiscus Digital Media Private Limited, Trivandrum
Impact of climate change in oceans, fisher flocks and difficulties to depict the same in science films – 10 minutes K. RAJENDRAN, Senior News Editor, Kairali TV/ People TV Palayam, Trivandrum
Science Broadcasting – 10 minutes OM PRAKASH, Associate Executive Producer, Rajya Sabha Television, New Delhi
1345 – 1430 HRS Lunch 1430 – 1600 HRS Film Screening . Nostalgia for the Light / Patricio Guzman/ Chile / 2010 - 89 Minutes
Tea will be served during the film screening 1600 – 1730 HRS Session 3 Chairperson: GAUHAR RAZA, Professor, AcSIR, Chief Scientist and Head, SCM, CSIR-NISCAIR
Lead Speakers How do make visually appealing science programmes with low budget? – 25 minutes FARHAT BASIR KHAN, Professor, AJK Mass Communication Research Centre, Jamia Milia Islamia, New Delhi
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Enhancing Science Content on Indian TV: Status, Issues and Way Forward – 25 minutes T.V. VENKATESWARAN, Scientist F, Vigyan Prasar, New Delhi
Discussants
Mobile Phone’s ‘Window to the World’ No-Cost (Ultra Low Cost) Mobile Filmmaking For Educational and Science Communication – 10 minutes Y.S. GILL, Filmmaker, Journalist and Science Communicator
Visual Packaging For Producing Cost Effective Television Programmes On Science & Technology – 10 minutes ROMESH CHATURVEDI, Science Film Maker
Tamil Films in the Creation of Scientific Awareness – 10 minutes CHRISTY LEEMA ROSE MARY E., Department of Media Sciences, Anna University, Chennai
1730 – 1900 HRS Film Screening . Human Face (Episode 1) produced by BBC – 50 minutes . KAKU - Universe in Nutshell – 40 minutes
Tea will be served during the film screening
Day 2, Saturday, 20 July 2014
0930 – 1030 HRS Film Screening
. Charles Darwin and the Tree of Life - 60 minutes
1030 – 1100 HRS Tea
1100 – 1230 HRS Session 4 Chairperson: FARHAT BASIR KHAN, Professor, AJK Mass Communication Research Centre, Jamia Milia Islamia, New Delhi
Lead Speakers Towards a Better Coverage of Science in the Visual Media in India – 25 minutes K.P. MADHU, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research
Story Telling and Science Filmmaking – 25 minutes SIVA KUMAR, Film Director and Faculty, Department of LV Prasad Film and Television Academy
Discussants Visualizing Biographical Docu-dramas: some thoughts – 10 minutes NANDAN KUDHYADI, Director, ISB&M School of Media, Member, Academic Council of Film & Television Institute of India, Pune
On Filming Science in India – 10 minutes T V SAJEEV, Head, Forest Entomology, Kerala Forest Research Institute
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Teaching Science Video Production – Challenges and Opportunities – 10 minutes G. BIJU MOHAN, Executive Director, MBL Media School
1230 – 1330 HRS Concluding Session: Brainstorming a Road Map for science communication through science film and promotion of science films in India
Chairperson: Mrs BINA PAUL VENUGOPAL, Deputy Director and Artistic Director, 7th IDSFFK, KSCA
Vote of Thanks: Mr NIMISH KAPOOR, Scientist D, Vigyan Prasar
1330 – 1500 HRS Film Screening followed by Lunch
. Flow: For Love of Water / Irena Salina / USA / 2008 - 93 Minutes
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GURDEEP SINGH SAPPAL
Gurdeep Singh Sappal is the Chief Executive Officer and Executive Editor of Rajya Sabha Television. He is credited with establishing the channel, which is the official broadcaster of the Upper House of the Parliament of India. Apart from telecasting the proceedings of Rajya Sabha, the channel also features news bulletins, debates and current affairs programmes, with an added focus on culture and science.
He is also the Officer on Special Duty to the Vice President of India and is responsible for the functions related to Rajya Sabha.
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How do make visually appealing science programmes with low budget?
FARHAT BASIR KHAN Professor, AJK Mass Communication Research Centre Jamia Milia Islamia, New Delhi E Mail: [email protected]
Abstract. Communication and persuasion are keys to effective messaging. The media today plays a transformative role in our lives and lowered costs of handheld devices, increased digitalization, low tariffs, improved bandwidth and high speed broadband access have led to new formats of storytelling. Unpacking complex scientific models, constructs and theories have made science more enjoyable and innovation possible. This paper explores both physical and mental technology- new modes of communicating and disseminating. The paper is replete with case studies and practical examples as to how new and digital technology can be used to effectively communicate with lowered costs. Along with identifying barriers to communication with the opportunities they present in popularizing Science in India.
Examining case studies with low and micro budget films, which went on to make history, interrogating the reasons for their success. While exploring scene setting, characterization, resolving time and space through locations and durations, elements of scripting, construction of sequences which lend themselves to digital formats, and the art of driving scenes to a minimum through relevant examples. And understand ways of dissemination.
Early this year UNICEF India launched the campaign, ‘Take Poo to the Loo’. An advocacy campaign that integrates multimedia over popular social media channels like Facebook and You-tube. Using rich visuals, info-graphics and multimedia film campaigns- creatively titled India’s first ‘Poo Song’ and a ‘Stinky Symphony’. The animated short “Nuclear Boy’, also became a hugely popular animated analogy for the Fukushima Nuclear disaster in Japan. These are important interventions using tools of cinema, that bridge the gap in public understanding of complex scientific discoveries and events even crisis.
These campaigns also use films for awareness building, education and disseminating information. The three essentials of popularization of science and inculcating a scientific temper.
The genre of low budget and micro-budget films has immense potential to play a role in popularization of science in teaching, education, research and in public consumption. Through an ability to inform and engage the viewer due to a strong impetus that digital technology has given to the spirit of enquiry and innovation and user generated content.
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Resume Farhat Basir Khan is currently the Maulana Azad Chair Professor at AJK Mass Communication Research Centre, Jamia Millia Islamia. An activist media expert and practitioner consulting with both international intergovernmental organizations and top advertising agencies. Khan has to his credit noteworthy productions like the fifty-year commemorative audio- visual for UNICEF India as well as WHO SEAR and contributes regularly to several electronic, print and web media.
He has completed several media projects and consultancies and has distinguished himself as a faculty and jury member both in India and abroad. Served as a member of many prestigious juries such as the International CMS Vatavaran Film Festival and for several years at the International Broadcast Convention in Netherlands, Amsterdam.
Has led productions, research, advocacy campaigns for accessible solutions in healthcare and the rights of minority women for equity and access to education and vocational training. Prof. Khan has been a mentor to several top industry leaders today.
Khan has contributed immensely to vocalization of mass communication education in India. And serves on several academic bodies of institutions of excellence across the country. He also has founded and helped set up several institutions and media production facilities including Photographic Excellence – where he served as professor and founder Director. He has also served on the Multi-stakeholder advisory group of the India Internet Governance initiative where he supported and led proposals for youth dialogues and a digital India. The team led by him brought the Sony World Photo Award to India.
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Challenges of Science Film Making
GAUHAR RAZA Professor, AcSIR, Chief Scientist and Head, SCM, CSIR-NISCAIR E Mail: [email protected], [email protected]
Abstract. Modern times have transformed society, radically. Information technology and miniaturisation of integrated circuits have revolutionised flow of information. On the one hand the cost of equipment required for generation, storage and transmission has gone down drastically and on the other technological changes has made information accessible to a common citizen at an unprecedented level. The access to information is snowballing at an ever- increasing pace in geographical terms and newer segments of society are being added as target audience for almost every channels of information. It should be noted that India and China are the only two countries where along with, listenership of radio; viewership of TV and subscribers of internet, the readership of newspaper is reported to be increasing. Elsewhere print medium is facing a serious danger of extinction.
Within the broad field of communication, which is going through an incredible transformation, science communication has not remained untouched. On the one hand we see an onslaught and glut of information/disinformation and on the other a common citizen is being empowered to generate, transmit and access information/disinformation. Introduction of a new revolutionary technology is always marked by initial chaotic phase, where power equilibrium of the previous era is disturbed or shattered completely. We are witnessing a similar phase which is yet to stabilise and poses a number of challenges for science communicators, especially, science filmmakers.
Every individual today is generator, communicator and consumer of information simultaneously. The role keeps on changing depending on many factors. However, it does not imply that the importance of experts who choose to train themselves in communicating science through films has reduced. Those who thrived in the past because they had access to equipment are surely under threat, the communicator of science in today’s world is under intense pressure to be more creative, for the simple reason that access to equipment has increased many folds. The second major challenge comes from the onslaught of information. Latest Information is available in plenty; therefore the objective of a science film cannot be restricted to conveying the scientific information. A science film should bring about attitudinal change, a change that should lead to creation of scientific temper. This where the clash of ideas takes place. In other words a science filmmaker has to face the unscientific ideas and reckon with them. Soft paddling is no more an option.
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Resume An electrical engineer by qualification, a scientist by designation, a communicator and a poet by passion. Initiated research on Public Understanding of Science in the country and has conducted large-scale PUS surveys. Area of expertise includes Science Communication, Cultural Studies, Indigenous Knowledge Systems and Scientific Temper with more than 30 years of experience in conceiving and formulating national and cross-country research projects, mobilization of funds, execution and supervision of projects, dissemination of research results through books, papers popular articles and other media channels.
Currently working as: Professor, AcSIR; Chief Scientist and Head, Department of Science Communication through Multi-Media (SCM) National Institute of Science Communication and Information Resources (NISCAIR), CSIR, INDIA, and former Director, Jahangirabad Media Institute.
International Fellow, MISTRA, South Africa.
Member, Science Communication Committee, JHC, University of Lorraine, France.
Earlier Worked as: Scientist, National Institute of Science Technology and development Studies, (NISTADS), CSIR, India, from 1982 to 2010; Executive Engineer, Research Center, Eicher Goodearth Ltd, India, 1979 to1982.
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Challenges and Opportunities of Science Filmmaking in India
BINA PAUL VENUGOPAL Artistic Director 7th International Documentary and Short Film Festival of Kerala
Abstract. From the early SITE Experiments to Doordarshan Terrestrial Channels the motivation for Science programming in India is different than in the West. While the West and more advanced countries have not to deal with basic literacy, in India the Challenge is double: since both literacy and Science are to be dealt with. The other Challenge is to include “Traditional Science” into the ambit of “Modern Science”. E.g a programme like Krishi Darshan, which is partly a science programme has to deal with this kind of issue. The discourse on Science Filmmaking has too long focussed on packaging rather than on content. The glossy nature of a film does not automatically make it more sound. Research methodology, language, creation of new vocabulary in regional languages, universalising experience and finally visualisation are the main challenges that Science Filmmakers in India face. Fantastic Science communication films like Cosmos etc. have a more limited use in a country grappling with getting out information on the monsoon or crop patterns or even sex education. Filmmakers need specialised training. Current pedagogical film practice does not allow for this kind of specialisation. A filmmaker with only filmmaking skills is not equipped enough to examine scientific issues, judge the veracity of research or translate this into a common vocabulary. Suggestions: Perhaps an organisation like the Vigyan Prasar needs to set up special training modules for the equipping and specialisation of filmmakers.
Resume Alumni of the prestigious Film and TV Institute of India, Pune in 1983. Bina has been working as a film editor for the last twenty years. She has worked with many leading filmmakers in India and has won several State and National Awards for Editing. Some of the films she has edited are: Amma Ariyan Dir:John Abraham, Agnisakshi: Dir: Shyamaprasad, Janmadinam Dir: Suma Josson, Mitr, My Friend Dir: Revathi, Dance like a Man Dir: Pamela Rooks, In Othello Dir: Roysten Abel, Daya Dir: Venu. She has worked as the Senior Editor at C•DIT (Center for the Development of Imaging Technology) for ten years.
Along with editing Bina has also been the Artistic Director of the International Film Festival of Kerala for the last twelve years. The festival is one of the most popular in India and is into its 19 th Edition. Bina has served on Film Juries at numerous festivals including Berlin, Durban, Locarno, Romania and Zanzibar.
While at CDIT she was also the Course Director for a Video Filmmaking Diploma course. She has also been involved with teaching at various institutes and a regular guest faculty at the Film and TV Institute of India.
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Communicating Science: A Roadmap for the Digital Age
INDRANIL BHTTACHARYA Professor, Film and Television Institute of India, Pune E Mail: [email protected]
Abstract. The proposed paper attempts to locate science communication in general and the practice of science filmmaking in particular within a broad context of the media ecology of the digital age. The effects of the free flow of media content across multiple platforms, geographical and cultural spaces is being scrutinized and theorised by social and information scientists. The relationship of humans to media and culture is getting transformed everyday through what is sometimes seen as 'content overload' in a digitally hyper- connected society. The paper draws from some of these observations and findings and argues the need to re-propose the normative boundaries of science communication. The paper will also examine the need and efficacy of policy formulations to encourage popular dissemination of science and technology in the age of digital learning.
Resume Prof Indranil Bhattacharya teaches Screen Studies at Film and Television Institute of India (FTII). His teaching areas include history and aesthetics of cinema, television and contemporary digital media. In his previous stint (as Associate Professor of TV Production at FTII) he has taught scripting and directing short films and documentaries, as well as Film and Video Editing (as Adjunct Faculty in film editing departments at FTII and SRFTI, Kolkata).
He combines nearly 20 years’ experience in film editing, researching/directing documentary and educational films with a simultaneous involvement in teaching media production and appreciation. He has taught editing, directing, film theory and history, supervised student projects and conducted workshops at post-graduate courses in National Institutes and Universities in India and abroad. He has programmed and curated film festivals, including the first edition of the National Students Film Festival and Awards (NSFFA) launched by the government of India in 2013. Prof Bhattacharya is the Academic Head/Programme Coordinator and Principal Faculty of the prestigious Film Appreciation Summer Course, jointly organized by Film and Television Institute of India and National Film Archive of India, Pune. He has launched a pilot short course in Curating and Programming Films in FTII, a course designed to open possibilities of dialogue and interaction of cinema with new emerging practices of inter-media and trans-media arts.
Prof Bhattacharya has researched and published a short monograph on Himansu Rai - silent cinema pioneer and the founder of Bombay Talkies. His other academic contributions include seminar papers on Educational Films and on 'cinematic realism in the digital age'. He has received 8 awards and citations from the University Grants Commission between 1998 and 2007 for producing educational and scientific films. He received an award from European Union initiative for HIV/AIDS to produce a short documentary on media coverage of HIV/AIDS issues in the year 2005.
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National Mission of Science &Technology Communication
K. MOHAN KUMAR Group Head, Communications, C-DIT, an autonomous video production facility of Govt. of Kerala
Abstract. To address the broad issues on science communication, I strongly recommend that DST constitute a National Mission on Science &Technology Communication in the line of National Skill Development Mission. The mission should address, 1. Preparation of an Action Plan 2. Assess the need and no. of science communicators needed for the next 5 years 3. Identification of Institutions/Universities/Agencies to be involved 4. Interface with Industry and R&D Institutions 5. The Convergence of technology solutions needed-platform independent 6. Strengthening of existing institutions and infrastructure 7. National science TV channel and its web channel and searchable digital archive. 8. Collaboration of inter departmental initiatives of MHRD, DST etc 9. Dialogue with Industry and trade bodies 10. Updating International exchange programmes and extending it further
Resume: K. Mohan Kumar
Educational Qualification: MA (MassCom), MCRC, Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi (1984-86)
Present Status: Currently working as Group Head, Communications, C- DIT, an autonomous video production facility of Govt. of Kerala and Regional production facility of NCSTC, Dept. of Science and Technology, Govt. of India, (24 years of experience in Science and Development Communication)
Professional status: . Awarded Fulbright fellowship in communication technology and studied at Syracuse University New York from 1999 -2000. . Won several awards including International Environment Award - Earthvision 1992 at Tokyo for the best video documentary-WEEPING RICE BOWL and national award for best science documentary- SASTRAKAUTHUKAM in 1995 in the International video festival held at TVM. . Responsible for conceptualizing and directing popular science video series Sastrakauthukam (48 episodes) for Doordarshan. . Manavodayam (Origin of Humankind) 26 episodes in 4 languages for the National Council for Science and Technology Communication, DST, Government of India. . Initiated SUTHARYAKERALAM (62 Episodes), CM’s interactive public grievance redressal programme in Doordarshan along with PRD by incorporating media, and e-governance.
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. Was instrumental in bringing the first convergence course in media (post graduate diploma) in collaboration with Kerala University. . Worked as Film Officer in Kerala State film Development Corporation, from1998 to 1999. . Must have co-coordinated more than 200 science, education and development video productions for NCSTC, Doordarshan, I&PRD and NCERT, SCERT, State committee on Science& Technology and Environment, UNESCO, South Zone Cultural Centre, Tanjore and various government departments. . Designed and executed the total communication strategy for the MGP (Modernizing Government Programme) and Sports Super Bumper Lottery, by bringing Film, Video, Radio, Web, Hoardings, Digital displays, Newspaper advts etc. . Designed and executed the total communication plan for the Lucky Vat campaign, commissioned by the state commercial taxes dept. . Designed and co-directed 103 episodes of Green Kerala Express, the first social reality show in Indian television, which won the best innovation award 2011, constituted by the Ministry of Urban affairs, Govt. of Kerala. . Initiated another social reality show (75 episodes)-Harithavidyalayam for the department of Education. . Director of the musical video album Vismaya, Of Dr. Sreevalsan J Menon, Carnatic vocalist and composer, produced by Mayan Media. . Currently working on a documentary on Muziris Heritage project, for the department of Tourism, Government of Kerala. . Worked with almost all departments/institutions in the state for meeting their media/communication needs . Instrumental in conducting the first international video festival IVFEST 95 and IVFEST 2002 in Kerala. . Instrumental in bringing in collaborative ventures like Koodiyattam documentation for UNESCO and Kalam documentation for South Zone Cultural Centre, Thanjore. . Initiated CM’s website and online webcasting services. . Facilitator and technical co-coordinator of ViCTORS project of EDUSAT - the first regional educational channel of the country. . Jury member for the All India Audio –Video Educational Festival of 2007 and jury chairman for the same festival of 2010 and 2011. . Executive member of SIET (State Institute of Educational technology), Govt. of Kerala. . Initiated the digital archiving projects for KITTS, NATPAC and VYLOPPILY SAMSKRUTHI BHAVAN . Initiated the interactive web portal on www.keralawomen.gov.in for the social welfare department. Govt. of Kerala. . Initiated the first platform independent interactive web portal for Kochi Metro Rail Corporation. . Now working on the total communication strategies for the Social Justice Department, Government of Kerala.
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Towards a Better Coverage of Science in the Visual Media in India
K.P. MADHU Indian Institute of Science Education and Research E Mail: [email protected]
Abstract. What can we do to improve the quality and quantity of science mediated by TV and video in India? Given that the Indian media channels do not have the spending power of some of the western media channels, how can we still ensure productions that compete in quality? How important is money in improving the quality and quantity of science productions? And what are the other factors involved?
I superimpose these questions on the questions asked by Vigyan Prasar as the focus of the conference, and extract from personal experiences of producing science programmes, of commissioning and supervising producers, and of training producers to deal with science, some basic factors that help to find at least some partial answers.
I will play a new genre of science video production that suites the Indian context and argue that the strategies adopted will help improve science coverage, increase the impact and reduce costs.
Resume K P Madhu has more than three decades of experiences in media. Starting with print media he moved on to script writing for television and later, into directing and producing TV programmes. His interests have been science, education and development issues. He has written many articles and produced a large number of TV programmes. He has held various posts in inter- governmental, government, private, non-government organisations. This includes being a producer in UGC’s Countrywide Classroom, Producer of Turning Point, a popular magazine format television show, Chief Producer of Medical Television, Media consultant for NGOs, Joint Director looking after the programming, scheduling and telecast of UGC programmes, Programme Manager of AIBD involved in capacity building of broadcasters in the Asia Pacific region. Presently he is in-charge of the Science Media Centre. He conducts workshops on science, for content producers and workshops on media for science students, researchers and faculty. He has published four books, the first one a popular science book and the other three are related to training of media professionals.
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Story Telling and Science Filmmaking
SIVA KUMAR Film Director and Faculty, Department of LV Prasad Film and Television Academy Email: [email protected]
Abstract. Art of film is exciting and fascinating for anyone who is aware of its power. Science is equally fascinating for its power to open the doors to unknown. If so, shouldn’t science filmmaking be the most fascinating one in the world? Then why there are very few filmmakers in India who make interesting science films?
Even our great film makers have not made any feature film where science or scientific concept is somewhere at the core. Satyajit Ray once planned to make a film on Alien but didn’t materialize. Science fiction is also mostly unheard in the mainstream Indian Cinema. Nobody made serious effort to make bio-pic of our great scientists. Very recently a bio-pic on mathematician Ramanujan is made in Tamil and English by Indian producers. Lives of C.V.Raman and Chandra are definitely worth making a bio-pic in a grand scale. Though few films and documentaries made on Raman and Ramanujan by independent filmmakers with or without funding from DST, they were mediocre and seen by very small section of people.
Recently our Prime Minister during the launch of PSLV at Sriharikota said “we make great science projects in comparatively low budgets. Hollywood films are costlier than our science projects. Hollywood film “Gravity” is costlier than this PSLV project.” We take pride in our science. We take pride in our films. But where are our science films? Prof. Yashpal and Prof. Jayant Narlikar were stalwarts in popularization of science, they were associated with few mediocre science programs produced for Doordarshan in the pre-digital era of cinema.
In 2014, with technological advancements in digital era, means of making films are easily accessible to anyone. But process of making good films is still as difficult as it used be before or more difficult than it used to be.
The very purpose of making science films in our country is just not taking science to people or the so called “popularization of science” but making common man understand how science is inherent and invisible part of our everyday life, science is not rocket science but a tool to make our life richer and more meaningful.
In this context to make science films in India means is just not making films on text book science concepts or making films on cosmos or making films against superstition. The main challenge filmmakers who want to make science films face is how to make it interesting or engaging to anyone. On the other hand people who know how to make interesting films are not interested in science. We have to address both.
Once a little boy asked his father who is an astronaut “who was the driver of the rocket they were traveling”. The question baffled him, doesn’t know how to answer, after a thought he answered “In one way I can say Newton is the driver”. This is interesting because there is a story element in his answer.
The first step to address the challenges of science filmmaking in India is how to weave an interesting story to take the science to a target group. Why everyone is interested in listening to a good story. That itself involves science, science of human nature, science of human brain.
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My paper/presentation will explore this further and in detail and thus may answer the following questions
1. How do we communicate science in a manner that does not appear authoritarian? 2. How do make visually appealing science programmes with low budget? 3. How do we enhance the visual richness of stories to communicate science ideas better? 4. How do we make programmes that convey messages through a dialogue mode and does not appear to a one-way communication?
Resume A graduate in Mathematics and an alumnus of Film and Television Institute of Tamilnadu; he has directed and produced over 120 films that includes Corporate AV, Documentaries, Commercials, NGO films and short films. First senior producer in CDIT, Trivandurm between 1990 -93, during this period he has produced over dozen films on Popular Science and development issues. His films Sasthra Gauthagam, a science magazine program and Declining Birth rate – Lessons from Kerala won awards from Government of Kerala. His film “Pesticide Trap who is trapped? Pest or Peasant” and “Nano Magic” were screened in Mumbai International film festival for short and documentaries (MIFF). He served as selection committee member for International Competition Section of MIFF 2012. He has authored 4 books on cinema in Tamil. Worked as II unit director and an AD in two international productions; founder secretary of Chennai Film Society; involved in teaching film direction and script writing over the last ten years. At present he is a faculty at Direction department of LV Prasad Film and Television Academy.
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Enhancing Science Content on Indian TV: Status, Issues and Way Forward
T.V. VENKATESWARAN Senior Scientist, Vigyan Prasar, New Delhi E Mail: [email protected]
Abstract. Media, in particular television significantly influence the public sphere and construct what constitutes our common sense in the modern world. If we desire science and technology to be part of culture, then science needs to be present on television as a routine. Premised on the above, drawing from the international experiences and empirical studies on science on TV, particularly in Europe, the paper argues that, in addition to regulation, various measures are required in contemporary scenario to enhance airtime for science in India.
Resume Dr. T.V. Venkateswaran, is a scientist with Vigyan Prasar. Worked as a course director of the postgraduate programme on science and development communication at C-DIT, Thiruvananthapuram, he has been a science writer with contributions to several periodicals including Frontline, Down to earth, Sandarb, Thuril and so on. He has many science TV documentaries to his credit. His book tilted a revolutionary scientist; Einstein & His Ideas published by NBT has come out in many editions. He delivers popular science lectures to public and conducts training for media students on science communication.
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Collaborative communication: on evolving new strategies for production and spreading scientific knowledge using network platform
D. DAMODAR PRASAD Director, Educational Multimedia Research Centre, University of Calicut E Mail: [email protected]
This paper focuses on the possibilities of production of science visual content through a collaborative framework using new media technologies. The network platform enables wide-reach and ensures interactivity that value adds the production and circulation of science content. The importance of institutional collaboration enables the visual content produced by scientific institutions opening a new space for the popularization of the content. The need for such structured collaborative production of science visual content is becoming increasingly important because communicating science while remaining within the structures of pre dominant tele-visual market has become a nil possibility. Any realistic assessment of contemporary image industry would inform us that the dominant uniform visual structure repeated in all genres and formats in visual media does preclude images that challenge the entrenched formats that are currently in fashion. It may seem ironic that systematic shrinkage of space for science film making is happening at a time and context when the digital technologies are enabling innumerable possibilities of visual productions, which are comparatively low-cost compared to previous productions technology. One may argue that low-cost hardware does not resolve the issue because serious science film making is not just a talk show. It is also important to understand the specific features of the programmes on technology. Almost all of these programmes primarily focus on web and mobile. These are programmes that are uniquely set in the present day tele-visual culture and oriented with a market- centric ideology. Like the programmes on technology, a few other programmes on engineering architecture and agriculture are also telecast in popular time-slot. However, these programmes also adds no value to knowledge. It does only impart some market- specific information. Besides this the dominant media channels have programmes on ecology. The stories generally aired in this slot are underpinned with elements of controversy. The contents that are someway connected with science enter the media heavily mired in controversies. It is only controversy that remains at the end. In this context, it is important to specify the distinctive features of science programmes. The paper briefly explores a few possibilities to be worked out as real long-term strategy to move out of hyper-commercial infotainment visual industry in which the space of science imaging is getting shrunk day by day.
Resume Damodar Prasad, presently is the Director of the Educational Multimedia Research Centre (EMMRC), University of Calicut. Previous to this, he was working with the Centre for Development of Imaging Technology (C-DIT). While working at C-DIT, he was actively involved in the science and development communication projects of C-DIT. This includes major projects like “Manavodayam” and “Shasthrakouthukam”. He is now involved in educational communication and in the production of e-learning materials. He was also the co-ordinator of Science and Development P.G.Diploma programme of the C- DIT and was also the Course Director of communication training team of C-DIT. Damodar Prasad has produced a few documentaries and had also penned a column in Malayalam on media. Damodar Prasad is a Post Graduate in English Literature and holds a Post Graduate Diploma in Science and Development Communication.
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Visualizing Biographical Docu-dramas – some thoughts
NANDAN KUDHYADI Director, ISB&M School of Media, Member, Academic Council of Film & Television Institute of India, Pune E Mail: [email protected]
Abstract. From time immemorial the Indian genius has comprehended the appropriateness of the narrative in communication of ideas, values and information. It is this long tradition of the story telling, which engages Indian audience young and old that I like to explore as docu-drama in the biographical projects. Most Biographical documentaries are based on celebrated personalities but generally little is known about their life or how they arrived at their discoveries or inventions or conjectures. A good narrative can explore the abstract workings of science through their persona and the inherent drama of their life stories. This is a strategy proven since ancient times to communicate abstract concepts woven into engaging narratives. The Jataka stories depicted in the Ajanta murals bear testimony. To bring alive the personality and contextualize the times gone bye we have no other recourse than to undertake detailed research – textual and visual. Visual research is a base to authentically recreate a period through costumes, properties and architecture. Textual material of all kind help form the narrative structure of story line, which in turn facilitates the visualization. Through the content emerges the form – the presentation strategies. The elaboration of practical framework paving way to the final product.
Resume Nandan KUDHYADI has more than sixty-five documentaries to his credit on varied subjects. Several of them have won top national awards, and have been screened at various international film festivals like Cinema du Reel, Tokyo, Brussels, Vancouver, Pusan, Hawaii, Karlovy Vary and others.
His much talked about film RASAYATRA has won the Golden Lotus National Award for the Best Non-feature Film of the year 1995, for ‘it’s sensitive and imaginative transposition of music, into a dignified cinematic expression’. It also won the Jury’s Special Mention at the Brussels festival. It was chosen for the NHK Asian Film Festival at Tokyo, as also for the INDOMANIA Festival at Paris. It has traveled all over the world as part of the NETPAC Asian Discovery Selection -1996.
Nandan Kudhyadi graduated in Fine Arts before specializing in film direction at the famous Film & Television Institute of India at Pune. He has worked with celebrated international filmmakers like Michelangelo Antonioni and Krzysztof Zanussi, apart from Mani Kaul and Ketan Mehta.
As Director of ISB&M School of Media, he conceptualized and established the Post Graduate Program in Media Management. This two year course has three specializations, i.e. Communication Management & Advertising, Broadcast Management & Journalism and Media Management & Production. He was the Senior Professor of Film Direction at Whistling Woods International promoted by the Bollywood icon, Subhash Ghai. He is a member of the Academic Council of Film & Television Institute of India, Pune.
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Authoritarian forms of address and Indian Science Communication
FATIMA NIZARUDDIN Research Scholar, University of Westminster, United Kingdom E Mail: [email protected]
Abstract. The paper will try to explore the history of authoritarian forms of address in Indian Science Communication. Through an analysis of a few key films, the paper will study the role of a positivist approach to science in formulating these forms of address. Many critics argue that a colonial vision which saw Indians and India in terms of a lack envisaged an approach in which science was an integral part of the ‘civilizing’ mission. The filmmaking units of Independent India with their thrust on educating the public inherited at least some of the remnants of the colonial outlook (Roy, 2007). An expository form of address which talked down to the viewer was characteristic of a large section of early science documentaries. The predominance of experts and use of jargons added to the authoritarian nature of many science narratives. The present paper will explore how such an address can be avoided through a constructivist approach regarding the philosophy of science.
Resume Ms. Fathima Nizaruddin is a documentary filmmaker and researcher from Kerala. She is currently doing her PhD from University of Westminster, United Kingdom. Her research is broadly concerned with the documentary science narratives produced by both independent filmmakers and state institutions.
Impact of climate change in oceans, fisher flocks and difficulties to depict the same in science films
K. RAJENDRAN Senior News Editor, Kairali TV/ People TV Palayam, Trivandrum E Mail: [email protected]
Abstract. Sea is one of the vast regions where climate change has to make devastating impacts. It is going to cause irrecoverable damage to the sea and millions of people who depend on it for their bread and butter. Many studies have been conducted on this issue but very few detailed effort has taken place in India media. This is a difficult task to produce science films based on climate change impacts in sea and fisher sector. We do have floods of information. We have numerous reports. But many of them are putting forward contradictory analysis. Unavailability of clear cut data are another constrains. Sea is the difficult terrain to conduct in depth scientific study. We have to depend on assumptions of scientists, fishermen, islanders etc. This is the biggest debacle. Although climate change is one of the burning issues in the world, very few financial supports are awaiting for the producers. More resources are needed to be provided.
Resume Rajendran hails from Pattambi in Palakkad district of Kerala. Since 2000 he is working in Kairali, the Malayalam television channel. For nearly a decade he worked out of Kairali’s New Delhi news bureau. At present he is working as the channel’s Senior News Editor at Trivandrum. He is a recipient of many awards and fellowships including the UNDP Media Fellowship, CSE Media Fellowship, Panos South Asia Saneeya Hussian Media Fellowship and the Best TV Reporter Award by Government of Kerala. He has authored seven books.
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Mobile Phone’s ‘Window to the World’ No-Cost (Ultra Low Cost) Mobile Filmmaking For Educational and Science Communication
Y.S. GILL Filmmaker, Journalist and Science Communicator E Mail: [email protected]
Abstract. One of the big problems of making science films is the need for highly trained personnel, high-cost equipment and massive financial outlays for their production and dissemination. While media giants like National Geographic and Discovery are the world’s most popular science film producers and broadcasters, films for science popularization and educational purposes have to address a wide array of subjects, topics and questions which cannot be covered using the high- budget centralized production approach of the large media houses. A country like India faces unique problems because of the limited resources available and our cultural, lingual and geographical diversity. We thus need an innovative solution to the problems we face, and I am firmly of the view that we have the answer in a small gadget we are so familiar with – the Mobile Phone. The mobile phone packs processing power which combines with a camera and recorder, transmitter and receiver, a microprocessor and interactive interfaces to provide us a very personal yet powerful Window to the World. Interestingly, this is a two-way window – while the mobile user can see the world, others across the world too can see what the user wants to show the world. Science communicators and educators can make use of this interactive Window to the World to produce and disseminate science films like never before. The universality of the mobile phone lies in the fact that it can be used to shoot films using its cameras, disseminate films using Internet/Wi Fi/Bluetooth/MMS and watch the films on the phone itself. Unlike conventional television, mobile phone film viewing can easily be made interactive using simple applications and tools widely in use.
Beginning with the advent of digital sensors and magnetic tapes whereon images and sound were captured in an analogue form, leading soon to end-to-end digitization of the filmmaking process, digital technology has brought about a revolution in the world of media and communication. The convergences of the means of communication and the emergence of Intranet and Internet have made the world look very different. And finally the big strides made by wireless technology and digital communication led to the global cell phone revolution – putting in the hands of billions across the world the ubiquitous gadget called the mobile phone. It is the most popular personal multi-functional gadget which the rich and the poor, young and old, celebs and commoners, use with abundance for communication and information needs. Human history has, perhaps, never experienced such an omnipotent instrument – it’s a phone, a watch, a radio, a speaker, a microphone, a camera, a television, a monitor, a computer, a modem, a messenger, a navigator (GPS) and what not – all packed in a compact case with an interactive screen and input buttons (keyboard). It’s one of the most intelligent all-in-one gadget ever produced by humankind which science communicators can ill afford to ignore.
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Resume
Y. S. Gill, Journalist, Filmmaker and Science Communicator has been a journalist with the print and electronic media since 1977. He has worked for several publications. He has travelled extensively throughout India and abroad.
Besides reporting, various positions held in the media include:
. News Editor of Central News Service . Chief of Bureau and Editor of United Newspapers Network . Editor, Ready-to-Print Science Page – a syndicated page used by several daily newspapers across the country in Hindi, English, Punjabi, Marathi and Urdu. The project was funded by Vigyan Prasar. . Executive Editor of Asian Affairs, London . Editorial Director of Punjabilok and Urdu Tehzeeb web portals . Director of School of Communication and Cine Arts and has been associated with theatre . Produced several short science films for popular communication . Directed and produced more than 100 short films and documentaries for Doordarshan and foreign networks . Director-producer of a fiction series on short stories of Sadat Hassan Manto telecast by Doordarshan. . Director-producer of documentary series on Urdu language: Urdu- Masael aur Mustaqbil . Presently one of the trustees of Media Art Research and Studies (MARS), New Delhi. . He has been writing on topical issues for Indian and foreign publications. Besides writing lead articles for Vigyan Prasar Science Page, he have written science related articles for other publications, produced science films and written for radio.
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TV Content Creators vs Subject Experts
MATIUR RAHMAN Independent Fulltime Science Filmmaker E Mail: [email protected]
Abstract. Challenges of interaction between subject expert and producer during the course of Pre-Production, Production and Post-Production is probed from the production experience point of view of a science filmmaker. The payoff in the article is derived from the producer’s direct experience of engaging with academia as well as the technical crew from the stages of conceptualizing a science film to printing the final mixed master tape. The importance of relevant and intensive research and the art of writing for ear to distinguish a radio programme from writing for film is stressed upon. Apart from looking at what ails the interaction between subject experts and producers while engaging in science film making, an attempt is also made to put a few aspects across about experts at presentation and evaluation committees. The article also serves as an indicator of areas for collaborative action and appreciation from both of them for a better media product.
Resume Matiur Rahman is an independent full-time Science Filmmaker and Managing Director of Television Programme Company based at New Delhi with bureau offices and production facilities at Bangalore, Bhubaneswar and Kozhikode. Television Programme Company is engaged in science television content production from Script-to-Screen for the past twenty nine years with over two hundred programmes already telecast through private and state television channels. Trained with Mass Communication Research Centre, Jamia Millia Islamia (1984) and The European Institute for the Media, University of Manchester, UK. (1987), Matiur Rahman served as Director of Audio Visual Research Centre at Indian Institute of Technology, Roorkee (IIT-R) during 1998 and 1999. He is also the Founder and President of the Society for Promotion of Technological Innovation and Scientific Temper styled as START (Search for Truth and Return to Science), the major activity of which is screening science films at under resourced educational institutions throughout the country.
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The Unruly Teenager! A Deeply Personal-Professional Take
SEEMA MURALIDHARA Television Director-Producer –Science Communicator, Beacon Television E Mail: [email protected], [email protected]
Abstract. The Television Industry is like an unruly spoilt teenager in India. Flamboyant yet insecure. Loud and Self Obsessed. Frothy and above all, insensitive. And in this sea of a hugely populist, brand conscious, frothy world of glitter and gloss there is Science Communication. The un-glamorous, bumbling, boring, unwanted and not-so-cool country cousin. But there is Space. We can be the daal-roti in this world of pizzas, colas and burgers. How does a professional committed to making the country more rational, more aware and a little more scientifically inclined, rise to the challenge.
The answer is not simple. But as a full time Science Communicator author has been trying to devise strategies to redesign, rethink and re-engineer the very niche Science programming in India.
This Presentation is author’s deeply personal take on the Challenge.
It covers the following Understanding the Indian Audience.
Engaging the Audience.
Respecting the Diversity.
Sensitising the Broadcast Platforms.
Break the Niche, make it Popular.
Span the genres. Enter the world of Fiction. Deal with Health, Environment, Culture, Crime, Psychology, Cuisine & Life Style.
There’s nothing Science does not encompass. Let it reflect in the Programming in a fun-filled engaging manner. Sharpening our Tools is the need of the hour.
Resume I work for the ‘Idiot Box’ but I made a choice. Realising early in my professional life that I had to make a choice. Refusing to be a part of the herd, I decided to use my craft to follow the less trodden path of disseminating information. I’ve walked the path, faced the challenges and I’m happy to be doing what I’m doing. My professional life began as a Print Journalist with the Times of India way back in 1988. Television beckoned me. I joined only Broadcaster at that time, Doordarshan as a News Correspondent. A privileged post which started with a professional course in TV
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News & Journalism at the Film & Television Institute of India. My professional life has seen many twists and turns and I have remained true to my calling. Here are some of the Series done by me and the path traversed over the last 27 years.
Work Experience Director-Producer-Script Writer-Science Communicator, Beacon Television(1995 till date) Producer-Director-News Correspondent, Zee TV (1992-1995) Correspondent, News & Current Affairs, Doordarshan India (1988-1992) Reporter-Sub-Editor, Nav Bharat Times, New Delhi (1987-1988)
Current Assignments A 13 part Series on Spices for Vigyan Prasar, Department of Science & Technology A 52-episode Science Game Show Khudbud, Khel Vigyan Ke. It’s a travelogue that travels to different schools all over the country to play Science with Children. It celebrates Curiousity and hands-on-learning. Currently on air DD National & DD Bharati. A Set of Patient Empowerment Films on all aspects of Cervical Cancer as a copy left web resource for Indians.
Awards & Recognition Received many national awards of films including the very prestigious National Award for Popularization of Science & Technology in the Electronic Media. 2006 (NCSTC) Khudbud: the episode on Flight ‘Pamkh Hote To’ bagged the Best Video in the All India Educational Film Festival, 2014 in the Senior Secondary Category The Silver Beaver for the film ‘Magic of 110’ from the Series transit of Venus, Daytime Astronomy at the National Science Congress. Best Video in the Senior Secondary Section at the UGC-CEC Festival for ‘Flyer’, a film on the history of Flight. The Golden Beaver Award for ‘Little Green Men’ a film on Pulsars in the first ever Rashtriya Chalchitra Mela during the 98th National Science Congress.
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Visual packaging for producing cost effective television programmes on science & technology
ROMESH CHATURVEDI Science Film Maker E Mail: [email protected]
Abstract. Media is the powerful force for disseminating information to the general public, the art of stimulating the imagination often remains elusive. It is important to use television and the new electronic media in particular, in ways that engage viewers and users by presenting scientific information in simple manner. This paper is based on then the study of visual elements (especially dynamic signs and aural sign) and how meaning can be created by using their different combinations in TV programmes on science and technology. The aim of this paper is to discuss a sequencing model combining semiotics and aural elements. This model can be used in cost effective productions which will benefit both academics and market needs. Cost effective science based programmes will be specifically designed to foster interest in science and technology among young people. Science based TV programs makes an effort to inform the viewers about the nature and role of science and technology, so as to make citizens both better informed and better able to adapt to the many changes that science and technology have brought, and will continue to bring, to their lives.
Resume
Romesh Chaturvedi is a Science Film Maker & Content Head, Image & Creation – a Film Production Company. His core areas of specialization include film studies, film making & television production. He holds a Master Degree in Journalism & Mass Communication from Lucknow University. Short films, documentaries and educational films are the area of his special interest. His science fiction film “Searching Water” was nominated in prestigious CMS Vatavaran International film festival. He has presented & published papers in National & International level Journals & conferences. He has worked in various production houses as Associate Producer, Director & Script Writer. He has been associated with media in various capacities.
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Teaching Science Video Production – Challenges and Opportunities
G. BIJU MOHAN Executive Director, MBL Media School E Mail: [email protected]
Abstract. Visual Media is an emerging discipline which attracts thousands of students around the country. Booming media industry in the last two decades has spurred the demand for trained human talent, which in turn has resulted in the significance increase in the number of students entering into the discipline in the last decade. Often the prescribed course of study demands that students learn the practical and theoretical aspects of visual media production.
In the context of the increasing resistance against 'developmental' projects from various sections of people, and also due to its perceived inherent educational value, Science and development communication has a space in Indian TV. Thus the current climate of booming media industry provides an opportunity to train and develop a new generation of science video producers in the country. But there are many challenges one has to face in developing science communication skills in visual media students.
Resume G. Biju Mohan is an independent film maker and media academician. He has produced more than 30 documentaries on development, social, political and scientific themes for renowned agencies and TV channels. He has worked as Deputy Director of Jahangirabad Media Institute from 2010 to 2012. In 2007, he attended Asian Film Professionals Training Programme organized by Korean Film Council (KOFIC), Seoul, South Korea. He organized two editions of National Student Video Film Festival and National Science Film Festival in collaboration with Vigyan Prasar, Govt. of India. He has authored two books on Indian and Asian film industries which were published by international publications. Mr. Mohan regularly conducts film and media related workshops for students and professionals. He has been serving as consultant (India) of Migrant Film Festival, Seoul. He has been associated with Jaipur International Film Festival as Jury Member. Presently he is working as Executive Director of MBL Media School, Calicut, Kerala.
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Creating Animation Science Films for the Mass: Challenges and Prospects
MADHU K.S. Managing Director, Hibiscus Digital Media Private Limited, Thiruvamnanthapuram E Mail: [email protected], [email protected]
Abstract. Animation as a medium has an intrinsic strength for creating fiction and fantasy and can influence or change attitude of the mass. Animation can be used for teaching and imparting messages in limited or closed groups, but to influence and move the mass, it has to be used as a tool for creating movies. Because, as we know the mass will seldom listen to instructional or pedagogical messages; they have to be lured into habits, as being done effectively by the advertising industry. For messages and instructional short films, often animation studios are hired by organisations for a limited budget. But for creating movies, the studio has to generate an income from the movie to make the venture profitable. Simply, there has to be a business model for such productions. In a country like ours, with the diversity and richness in folk, cultural and storytelling traditions, creating compelling stories to convince the mass, a point like science and environment, should be rather easy. But animation industry, like the IT and ITES sector is currently focussing on the offshore market. This has to change; the industry also has to address the domestic demand for content and devise strategies to make the domestic animation market viable. It could address our own problems and create content with universal appeal and international quality so that it could be marketed globally. We can thus produce great movies to tell the world out of our own problems or solutions for them and at the same time make it economically viable. The greatest challenge in drawing audiences to theatres for animation films in India is that people see the medium as one exclusively meant for children or instruction. Three solutions are proposed to overcome this issue. The first is developing appropriate content, the second is a supporting role of the television industry and the third a cost-effective production mechanism. Content has to be developed from the concerns of common man. It should make them feel that it is their own story, or suggest possible solutions for their grievances, through formulae adopted by the mainstream film industry. The role of television industry is to recognise and promote relevant content and make it commercially viable. It could thus create a visual sensitivity among the Indian audience by taking animation to millions of homes and to show them that the medium is not only for cartoons. Animation, like every other medium is expensive, but it can sustain itself through FOSS tools like Linux and Blender, making animation production less expensive. To cite an example, look at the case of Western Ghats. The mountains are being plundered like never before and the mass is being used politically to continue the exploitation, riding on their ignorance of facts. If we had a different attitude and knowledge of conservation and sustainability, things could have changed. Animation could be used to create this attitude change, by telling breath-taking stories, not only of man but of the remaining species too.
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Resume
Academic: M. Des. (Industrial Design) IIT Bombay, B.Tech. (Applied Electronics & Instrumentation), College of Engineering, Thiruvananthapuram
Experience . Founder Director and MD, Hibiscus Digital Media, (12 years) . Head, Design & Animation, C-DIT, Govt. of Kerala (4 years) . Product Designer, Larsen & Toubro Ltd., Mumbai (1 year) . Filmography Directed Manchadi (4 vol), Pupi (3 vol), Kathu (2 vol) and Mayavi (3 vol) animation series, Princess of Persia, Forbidden Spring (animated short films)
Awards: . Golden Beaver Award for ‘Pupi 2’, RVCM 2009-2010 by Vigyan Prasar . Silver Beaver Award for ‘Dolly-Obesity’, RVCM 2012-2013 by Vigyan Prasar. . Best Programme for Chlidren, Kerala State Television Awards 2006 and 2009 for ‘Pupi’ . Best Short Film for Children, Kerala State Television Awards 20011 for ‘Kathu’ . Special Jury Mention for ‘Pupi 2’, 3rd International Documentary & Short Film Festival of Kerala, 2010. . Best Programme, Best Director, Best Animation and Best Editing awards for ‘Pupi’, 12th All India Children’s Educational Audio-Video Festival, NCERT, 2007.
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Science in Action: Challenges in Telling a Dynamic Story through Visuals
ABHAY S.D. RAJPUT Scientist-C, Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM), Pune E-mail: [email protected], [email protected]
Abstract. As humans, we learn through images rather than words. Therefore, (moving) images of science can have a lasting impact on our understanding of science and of course, on our memory. Further, such moving images (i.e., films) having dynamics of science and emotions/feelings of scientists involved can even make the experience for viewers more enjoyable and memorable. But there are many challenges in making such experience happen on film in India. The one such big challenge is getting dynamic visuals depicting science in action. The film medium is meant for plain depiction of action. If there is no action, we can’t say that it’s a film. Therefore, science films are not dictation of scientific facts on screen, but are to show science in action. People don’t want to read text books in a science film. They don’t want to see an authoritarian person on screen showering down scientific facts on them, until and unless it’s purely pedagogic. This is another challenge in science filmmaking in India. Science films being made in India are mostly pedagogic or based on deficit (top to down) model of science communication. They try to tell us more and show less. If we wish to use films as an effective medium for science communication, then we need to make science films that show more and tell less. The prevalent practice in science filmmaking in India revolves around narration and interviews with real visuals being sparse. The general public already believes that science is dull, boring and complicated to understand. Such films simply reinforce this belief. To counter this, we need to make science films that tell a dynamic story of science in action through visuals. To make more interesting, more exciting and more entertaining science films, we should focus on showing science in action rather than focusing on faces. A change in approach is required from ‘people talking about science’ to ‘visuals showing how science is done’. I’ll be discussing different challenges which hinder in telling a dynamic story of science in action through visuals.
Resume
Abhay S.D. Rajput is a Science Communication Scientist at the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM), Pune (an autonomous institute of Ministry of Earth Sciences, Govt. of India). Rajput holds a M.Sc. in Science Communication with specialization in video production and editing. He is a recipient of the Rajat Jayanti Science Communication Award 2008 (NCSTC, DST, GoI, New Delhi) and the S. Ramaseshan Science Writing Fellowship 2008 of Current Science (Current Science Association/Indian Academy of Sciences, Bangalore). He has worked with the Radio Kashmir Jammu (AIR) as a science broadcaster for one year where he produced around 100 radio programmes on science. He has also worked with the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR). Rajput has a good experience of science communication through print, electronic (radio and TV) and digital media. He has written for Science Reporter, Current Science, Indian Express, Free Press, Vipnet News, etc. His work on science communication is published in peer reviewed journals like Indian Journal of Science Communication and Science Communicator. Rajput has authored books: Handbook of Science Journalism, Aiming High (an anthology of motivational poems) and The Hot Globe (an anthology of science poems).
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On Filming Science in India
T V SAJEEV Head, Forest Entomology, Kerala Forest Research Institute E mail: [email protected]
Abstract. The paper discusses the following concerns of filming science in India 1. Negating dominant power structures inherent in the practice of institutional Science. Unless Science proper cultivates a working ethics wherein other knowledge systems are acknowledged, Science communication will continue to remain in the realm of authoritarian notions. a. What is there in science that makes it difficult to communicate? b. Is that thing the very element of science itself and that is its struggle against common sense? c. In this sense, can science be communicated? d. If yes who should do this? Journalists or scientists? e. If it is specialist communicators as in the case of journalist will it continue to be science? f. Or the science that is communicated is still another thing called “communicated / communicable science”? g. If so what is the terrain of science communication?
2. Communicating science as an explorative process and not as a finished product so that the methods, assumptions, scope and domain of science are well illuminated. 3. The twin traps of communication deficit because of complexity of content and content deficit owing to over-simplification. 4. Knowledge generated, communicated and used by common man and the ecosystem people are largely in local dialects amenable to loss when translated.
Resume Sajeev is trained in Forest Entomology. His doctoral work was on the spatial dynamics of teak defoliator outbreaks: Pattern and Causes. He had established the Entomology Laboratory at Nilambur which developed the eco-friendly bio pesticide against the major pest of the teak tree- Hyblaea puera. He was trained at the International Pesticide Application Research Centre at Silwood Park, UK and Tamil Nadu Agricultural University. He currently heads the Entomology Department at Kerala Forest Research Institute, Peechi. Sajeev is currently the Coordinator of Asia-Pacific Forest Invasive Species Network (APFISN) - a cooperative alliance of 33 countries in the Asia-Pacific region. The network helps member countries track the movement of invasive species in the region. Sajeev has organized capacity building workshops in China, Burma, Srilanka, Maldives and New Zealand. Currently he is running a research programme funded by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) on managing destructive forest pests in India, Maldives and Sri Lanka. He talks and writes on matters related to earth.
Book of Abstract: Round Table Conference on Challenges in Science Film Making in India 19-20 July 2014, Trivandrum 34
Tamil Films in the Creation of Scientific Awareness
CHRISTY LEEMA ROSE MARY E.1 and I. ARUL ARAM2 Department of Media Sciences, Anna University, Chennai – 600025 Email: [email protected], [email protected]
Abstract. Tamil films are in the forefront of science communication. ‘Anniyan’ created awareness about ‘multiple split personality’, ‘Ghajini’ on ‘short-term memory loss’, ‘Puthiya Mugam’ on ‘plastic surgery’, ‘Ezham Arivu’ on DNA, and ‘Haridas’ on autism. All the health awareness campaigns led by the government and other organizations only create awareness on currently threatening issues. However, films create awareness among the audience about a very new issue or something which is unknown among a lot of people. Awareness on many technologies is also created through the films. The film ‘Enthiran’ starring actor Rajnikanth created awareness on robotics. Many schools and colleges in Tamil Nadu started robotics clubs after the release of the film which influenced the children and youth for taking a liking to robotics. When films subtly convey science information, the information is registered in one’s mind without the person’s knowledge, which is ‘indirect education’. In today’s world, communication of science has become easy. There are lots of media that are accessed by common people. Starting from newspapers to new media, a person gets the information searched immediately. Majority do not want to watch an educational channel during leisure time. A person almost opts for an entertainment to make mind relaxed. In this scenario, reaching common people to educate them on science is hard. So, indirect education through films is the best option for communicating awareness of basic scientific facts.
Resume Media Professional with 6 years of experience in commercial and educational video and audio programme production which includes Radio station management, community development activities and events and activities management for the radio listeners. With nearly 3 years of experience in the field of community development as a radio broadcaster and educational programme producer, I have the ability to counsel the community for their development and train them with the help of the experts in any field such as health, education and personality development. Currently Christy Leema is a Research Scholar in Anna University.
Dr. I. Arul Aram is the Coordinator of M.Sc. (Science and Technology Communication) in the Department of Media Sciences, Anna University, Chennai. He held additional charge as Director of UGC's Educational Multimedia Research Centre (EMMRC) in 2010-2011. He is formerly a Chief Sub-Editor with The Hindu newspaper. He had also served as the President of the Madras Press Club. He has been a resource person for UNESCO training programmes on Media. He had presented papers in several national and international conferences, and published 71 papers. He has published five books: Television in Education (Orient Longman 1993), Understanding News Media (Vijay Nicole 2006), Understanding Development Communication (Media House 2007), Media, Technology and Society (UELCI-ISPCK 2008), and Communication Strategies for Coastal Communities (Lambert Academic Publishing 2011). He specializes in the areas of science communication, and communicating climate change. He has done peace-building courses from Transcend Peace University, Romania, and Eastern Mennonite University, USA. He was a post-doctoral fellow of the London School of Economics. He is a Fellow of the International Congress of Environmental Research.
Book of Abstract: Round Table Conference on Challenges in Science Film Making in India 19-20 July 2014, Trivandrum 35
Documentary films on nuclear energy: an effective tool to bridge the technology - awareness gap of understanding
NIMISH KAPOOR Scientist ‘D’, Vigyan Prasar [email protected], [email protected]
Public perception of nuclear energy is a key factor whether it is used in a country for the production of electricity. In recent years, the accident in the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant in Japan left us with a challenge of managing public perception on the global event. This challenge becomes an opportunity to communicate more about nuclear energy and related issues. As part of the objective of Vigyan Prasar (VP) to promote scientific and rational outlook “Public Awareness Campaign on Nuclear Energy” has been undertaken for awareness and capacity building on the issues associated with nuclear energy amongst various stake holders including students, teachers, representatives of the public and the news media. The aim and objective of this campaign was to remove myths and misconceptions on nuclear energy. Under this campaign VP tried to enhance public understanding on radiation and related issues including energy crisis and made people aware of safety aspects of nuclear power plants though documentary films. A wide variety of documentary films aimed at increasing the levels of awareness were produced and screened for the benefit of participants during the campaign. Yet another objective of the documentary films was to also kindle the spirit of inquiry amongst people, so that they will be able to assess the relevance of information provided to them. Several hundreds of people benefited from this initiative. This in turn could be expected to reach a much larger number of stakeholders across the country to inspire well informed action; pertaining to mainstreaming nuclear energy. Many misconceptions and rumours are associated with nuclear energy which were addressed in the films. These include perceptions on nuclear weapons, nuclear radiation and nuclear reactors are not safe for humans, environment etc. This technology - awareness gap of understanding nuclear energy is the most challenging area for science and technology communication in India today.
Following titles of the documentary films were produced and screened under the public awareness campaign on nuclear energy:
. Indian Nuclear Power Programme: nuclear power is an economical option and three-stage Indian nuclear programme. . Clean Energy Options and Environment: nuclear energy as a clean and green source of energy. . Energy Shortage in India - nuclear energy is the solution: energy mix of India, energy needs & the nuclear power option. . Safety of Nuclear Power Plants in India: various standards / safety features of nuclear power plants. . Corporate Social Responsibility and Environment Stewardship Programme of Nuclear Energy: visualizing people living healthy lives in the vicinity of nuclear power plants over decades (their short interviews) and biodiversity developed in the vicinity of nuclear power plants. . Applications of Nuclear Energy: visualising various roles of nuclear technology and radiation in agriculture, health and other sectors.
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Resume
Mr Nimish Kapoor is a scientist and science communicator working in Vigyan Prasar, Department of Science & Technology, Government of India from last 10 years. At present he is in-charge of Science Film Festival Division in Vigyan Prasar. His work profile includes development of resource material and conceptualization & coordination of campaigns / outreach programmes on science communication including science film festivals, orientation programmes for film makers & journalists. Recently he has been coordinated a nationwide public awareness campaign on nuclear energy in collaboration with NPCIL, Mumbai. Earlier to Vigyan Prasar, he has been associated as science communicator and broadcaster with Doordarshan & All India Radio; Principal Researcher for Science & Society based ZEE TV’s programme DASTAK (47 episodes) aired by Zee TV & Zee International; Founder Team Member and Programme Executive in Eenadu Television (ETV Uttar Pradesh) of Ramoji Film City, Hyderabad.
He has contributed more than 20 documentary scripts for Discovery Channel and Doordarshan, approx. 200 popular science articles, science news, review papers and book chapters on science communication, approx. 100 radio talks for All India Radio (AIR) and 15 science drama scripts for Vividh Bharti/AIR, anchored/scripted Evening Live Shows and science programmes of DD National and DD Lucknow and produced more than 400 non-fiction TV programmes, news based programmes and documentaries for ETV Uttar Pradesh. Attended various training courses of film making organised by Ramoji Film City, Hyderabad and UNESCO; and communication & management courses by IIPA, New Delhi; LBSNAA, Mussoorie; and XIM, Bhubaneswar. His science communication work has been recognized by ISWA, New Delhi and Vigyan Parishad Prayag, Allahabad.
Membership . Life Member of Indian Science Congress Association (ISCA) . Life Member of Indian Science Writers Association (ISWA) . Member of Alumni Association of IIPA – Indian Institute of Public Administration, New Delhi . Member of Alumni Association of Lucknow Christian College, Lucknow
Education . Master of Science – Mass Communication in Science &Technology (Merit Scholarship holder), University of Lucknow with the specialization in science documentary film making . Bachelor of Science (ZBC group), Lucknow Christian College, Lucknow (Recipient of Gold Medal in the area of science communication) . Certificate Course in German from University of Lucknow, India . Diploma in Computer Proficiency, ICS, New Delhi, India
Book of Abstract: Round Table Conference on Challenges in Science Film Making in India 19-20 July 2014, Trivandrum 37
About the films to be screened during the Round Table Conference on Challenges and Opportunities in Science Film Making 19-20 July 2014 1. Nostalgia for the Light / Patricio Guzman/ Chile / 2010 (89 Minutes) Guzmán focuses on the similarities between astronomers researching humanity’s past, in an astronomical sense, and the struggle of many Chilean women who still search, after decades, for the remnants of their relatives executed during the dictatorship. Patricio Guzmán narrates the documentary himself and the documentary includes interviews and commentary from those affected and from astronomers and archaeologists.
2. Human Face (Episode 1) produced by BBC (50 minutes) The Human Face is a 4 part BBC series that examines the science behind facial beauty, expression, and fame. Actor and comedian John Cleese investigated identity, perception, creativity and sexuality and their relation to the human face, combining art, technology and human interest stories. Episode 1 - Face to Face looks at how the face communicates without speech, focusing on expressions, disguise and the mysterious art of face-reading.
3. KAKU - Universe in Nutshell (40 minutes) In “The Universe in a Nutshell,” the lecture embedded above, Kaku tells of the origins of modern physics, breaks down how it has clarified to humanity so many of the mechanisms of existence, and reminds us of both the countless technological advances it has already made possible and the infinitude of them it will in the future.
4. Charles Darwin and the Tree of Life (60 minutes) Charles Darwin and the Tree of Life is a 2009 television documentary about Charles Darwin and his revolutionary theory of evolution through natural selection, produced by the BBC to mark the bicentenary of Darwin's birth. It is part of the BBC Darwin Season. The presenter, David Attenborough, outlines the development of the theory by Darwin through his observations of animals and plants in nature and in the domesticated state, visiting sites important in Darwin's own life, including Down House, Cambridge University and the Natural History Museum, and using archive footage from Attenborough's many nature documentaries for the BBC. He reviews the development of the theory since its beginnings, and its revolutionary impact on the way in which humans view themselves - not as having dominion over the animals as The Bible says, but as part of the natural world and subject to the same controlling forces that govern all life on Earth.
5. Flow: For Love of Water / Irena Salina / USA / 2008 (93 Minutes) Irena Salina's award-winning documentary investigation into what experts label the most important political and environmental issue of the 21st Century - The World Water Crisis.
Courtesy: Mr Sivakumar M and Mr Biju Mohan
Book of Abstract: Round Table Conference on Challenges in Science Film Making in India 19-20 July 2014, Trivandrum 38
REFERENCE PAPERS / ARTICLES ON SCIENCE FILMS
S.n Title of the paper Author Publication details o. 1. Scientists on the set: science David A. Kirby SAGE PUBLICATIONS, PUBLIC consultants and the UNDERSTANDING OF SCIENCE communication of science in Public Understand. Sci. 12 (2003) 261–278 visual fiction 2. How to teach biology using the Christopher Rose SAGE PUBLICATIONS, PUBLIC movie science of UNDERSTANDING OF SCIENCE cloning people, resurrecting the Public Understand. Sci. 12 (2003) 289–296 dead, and combining flies and humans
3. Of power maniacs and Peter Weingart SAGE PUBLICATIONS PUBLIC unethical geniuses: science UNDERSTANDING OF SCIENCE and scientists in fiction film Public Understand. Sci. 12 (2003) 279–287
4. A phenomenological Wolff Michael To be published in Public Understanding perspective on how Roth of Science doi: 10.1177/0963662513512441 public understanding of science changes by engaging with online media
5. Shaping public perceptions? Yvonne Price A thesis presented to the graduate school the science and scientists in of the University of Florida in partial scence fiction television fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Arts in Mass Communication University of Florida 2009
6. SCIENCE IN TV DRAMA Matteo Merzagora, RAI promotional campaign, 2004 Science as a part of the story Andrew Millington, Maddalena Scandola
7. SCIENCE ON TV Suzanne de http://hal.archives- Forms and Reception of Cheveigné ouvertes.fr/docs/00/17/17/68/PDF/Reception_a Science Programmes nglais_HAL.pdf on French Television 8. Popularisation of science Arthur Elton and file:///C:/Users/hp/Downloads/The%20Popular through films Sinclair Road for ization%20of%20Science%20Through%20Fil UNESCO m%20(1949).pdf
9. Between brains and breasts— Eva Flicker SAGE PUBLICATIONS, PUBLIC women scientists in fiction UNDERSTANDING OF SCIENCE film: on the marginalization Public Understand. Sci. 12 (2003) 307–318 and exualisation of scientific competence 10. Science and Reason in Film and William Evans Science and Reason in Film and Television – Television CSI, Volume 20.1, January / February 1996
11. SCIENCE ON George Gerbner SPRING 1987 TELEVISION: ISSUES IN SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY How It Affects Public Conceptions
12. Popular entertainment like - Center for Advancement of Informal Science cinema and television impacts Education (CAISE) on public attitudes Association of Science-Technology Centers, Washington, D.C. 20006
Book of Abstract: Round Table Conference on Challenges in Science Film Making in India 19-20 July 2014, Trivandrum 39
13. Television entertainment and George Gerbner, The Annenberg School of Communications viewers' conceptions of science Larry Gross, University of Pennsylvania Philadelphia, PA Michael Morgan 19104 and Nancy July 1985 Signorielli 14. What’ s next for science Matthew C. Nisbet American Journal of Botany 96(10): 1767– communication? and Dietram A. 1778. 2009. promising directions and Scheufele lingering distractions
15. Scientists on the set: science David A. Kirby SAGE PUBLICATIONS, PUBLIC consultants and the UNDERSTANDING OF SCIENCE, Public communication of science in Understand. Sci. 12 (2003) 261–278 visual fiction 16. Cinema in the popularisation of John Maddison Conference on dissemination of science, science UNESCO, 19-22 October 1955
17. Enhancing the documentary Ekaterina Yudin ‘New Media’ Master Thesis with data visualization August 23, 2011, Amsterdom University
18. Measuring Impact: The Importance of Beth Karlin, John M/C Journal, Vol. 14, No. 6 (2011) - 'impact' Evaluation for Documentary Film Johnson Campaigns
19. Knowledge, Reservations, or MATTHEW C. NISBET COMMUNICATION RESEARCH, Vol. 29 Promise? DIETRAM A. No. 5, October 2002 584-608 SCHEUFELE A Media Effects Model for JAMES SHANAHAN DOI: 10.1177/009365002236196 Public Perceptions PATRICIA MOY © 2002 Sage Publications of Science and Technology DOMINIQUE BROSSARD BRUCE V. LEWENSTEIN
20. Science popularisation through Bienvenido León http://www.pantaneto.co.uk/issue15/leon.htm television documentary: A study
of the work of British wildlife filmmaker David Attenborough 21. Going Green: Ben Lamar A thesis submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the Evaluating the Effectiveness of degree of Master of Science Communication Environmental Centre of Science Communication, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand Documentary Film 22. Music in the Science Classroom: Tom McFadden A thesis submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements The impact of content; based for the Degree of Master of Science Communication. songs on learning and Centre of Science Communication, University of Otago, engagement Dunedin, New Zealand
23. A paradigm shift for the science Christopher Michael A thesis submitted in partial fulfillment documentary Kustusch of the requirements for the degree of Master of Fine Arts in Science and Natural History Filmmaking, MONTANA STATE UNIVERSITY, Bozeman, Montana April, 2007
24. The perception of scientists Petereugster Science Creative Quarterly, January 30, 2007, archive, textbook
25. A triangular approach to Anne Catherine A thesis submitted in partial fulfillment science filmmaking Devereux of the requirements for the degree of Master of Fine Arts in Science and Natural History Filmmaking MONTANA STATE UNIVERSITY Bozeman, Montana May 2010
Book of Abstract: Round Table Conference on Challenges in Science Film Making in India 19-20 July 2014, Trivandrum 40
26. Beyond cosmos: carl sagan and Daniel John A thesis submitted in partial fulfillment a new approach Schmidt of the requirements for the degree to media science of Master of Fine Arts communication in Science and Natural History Filmmaking MONTANA STATE UNIVERSITY Bozeman, Montana April 2012
27. An Analysis of Public Opinion V.B. Gupta, Meenu Indian Journal of Science Communication, Kumar and on Science Television Channels Chandrika Volume 7 Number 1 January – June 2008 Chaurasia 28. The mobile aesthetics of cell Caridad Botella L. Revista KEPES Año 9 No. 8 enero-diciembre phone made films: from the Curadora 2012, págs. 73-87 ISSN 1794-7111 pixel to the everyday
29. Mobile Phone Cinema. Caridad Botella MA Thesis A Study of an Emerging Lorenzo Cinema Practice
30. Bridging the Two Cultures: The Walter C. Metz, This essay was written in response to an Case of Science and Natural Associate Professor, Oxford Round Table invitation to reflect on the History Filmmaking Department of contemporary significance of C.P. Snow. The Media and Theatre panel consisted of 40 presenters, one of whom Arts, Montana State was a bioethicist and another a medical University student. The remainder of the presenters were artists and humanists.
31. Report on approaches to Dr. Steve Bull, Prof. Project co-funded by the European popularisation Eric Larkins, Commission within the Sixth Framework targeted at 12-16 years olds University of Programme (2002-2006) Nottingham
32. Science documentary: Kathryn Morgan A thesis submitted in partial fulfillment a case for collapsing the Lain of the requirements for the degree distance of Master of Fine Arts in Science and Natural History Filmmaking MONTANA STATE UNIVERSITY Bozeman, Montana November 2009
Declaration: Organisers of the conference don’t have copyright of the above mentioned papers.
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List of Speakers & Discussants
S.no. Name 1. Mr Gurdeep Singh Sappal Chief Executive Officer Rajya Sabha Television (RSTV) 12-A, Gurudwara Rakab Ganj Road, New Delhi – 110001 Email: [email protected]
2. Prof. Farhat Basir Khan Professor Maulana Azad Chair AKJ Mass Communication Research Centre Jamia Millia Islamia University, New Delhi – 110025 E Mail: [email protected]
3. Prof. Gauhar Raza Chief Scientist and Head, Department of Science Communication through Multi-Media Natinal Institute of Science Communication & Informnation Resources, Dr. KS Krishnan Marg, New Delhi – 110012 E Mail: [email protected], [email protected]
4. Dr T.V. Venkateswaran Scientist F, Vigyan Prasar C-24, Qutub Institutional Area, New Delhi – 110016 E Mail: [email protected]
5. Mr Sivakumar M 390 B 13th Street, Ashtalakshmi Nagar Alapakkam , Chennai 600116 Email: [email protected] www.sivafilms.com, Face Book: Sivakumar Mohanan
6. Mr Mohan Kumar Group Head, Communications Division, Centre for Development of Imaging Technology (C-DIT) Kuyilathakam, K.K.Road, Aramada P.O, Thiruvanathapuram-695032 Email: [email protected]
7. Mr Indranil Bhattcharya Professor Film and Television Institute of India, Law College Road, Pune - 411004 E Mail: [email protected]
8. Mr K. P. Madhu Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Dr. Homi Bhabha Road, Pashan, Pune 411 008 E Mail: [email protected]
9. Mr Nandan Kudhyadi 4, Kanchan Apartments, Girija Society, Paud Road, Pune, 411038 E Mail: [email protected]
Book of Abstract: Round Table Conference on Challenges in Science Film Making in India 19-20 July 2014, Trivandrum 42
10. Mr Y.S. Gill Science Film Maker E 20, First floor, Jawahar Park, Laxmi Nagar, Delhi - 110092 E Mail: [email protected]
11. 1Mr Matiur Rahman 0Television Programme Company . 167/8A, Try Bhai House, 3rd Floor, Sarai Jullena, Near New Friends Colony, New Delhi-110025 E Mail: [email protected]
12. 1Ms Seema Muralidhara 1A-1/103, Siddharth Nagar Building No 5 CHS Ltd, Borivali E, Mumbai . E Mail: [email protected]
13. 1Mr Biju Mohan 2MBL Media School . Highway Gardens, Chungam, Feroke, Calicut, Kerala - 673631 E Mail: [email protected]
14. 1Mr Madhu K.S. 3Managing Director, Hibiscus Digital Media Pvt. Ltd. . EVRA-109, Elanjimoodu Lane, Edappazhinji, Thiruvananthapuram – 695014, E Mail: [email protected], [email protected]
15. 1Mr K. Rajendran 4Senior News Editor, Kairali TV/ People TV, Palayam, Trivandrum . E Mail: [email protected]
16. 1Mr Romesh Chaturvedi 5Science Film Maker & Content Head, . Image & Creation – a Film Production Company 3/288, Vinamr Khand, Gomti Nagar, Lucknow, U P - 226010 E Mail: [email protected]
17. 1Mr D. Damodar Prasad 6Director, Educational Multimedia Research Centre, . University of Calicut Calicut University (PO), Malappuram District, Kerala, PIN- 673 635 E Mail: [email protected] 18. 1Dr T V Sajeev 7Head, Forest Entomology . Kerala Forest Research Institute, Peechi- 680 653, Kerala E mail: [email protected]
19. 1Ms. Fathima Nizaruddin 8T.C 20/1360, Karamana [P.O], Trivandrum, Kerala. . Present Work and Work Place PhD Student, CREAM, Media, Arts and Design, University of Westminster, Harrow, United Kingdom E Mail: [email protected]
Book of Abstract: Round Table Conference on Challenges in Science Film Making in India 19-20 July 2014, Trivandrum 43
20. 1Mr Abhay S.D. Rajput 9Scientist - C . Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM) Dr. Homi Bhabha Road, Pashan, Pune-411008 E-mail: [email protected], [email protected] 21. 2Dr. I. Arul Aram 0Associate Professor and ex-HEAD . Department of Media Sciences, Anna University, Chennai-600025 Email: [email protected]
22. 2Ms Christy Leema Rose Mary E. 1No.12/20, Peeliamman Koil Street . Kottur, Chennai 600 085, Tamil Nadu Email: [email protected]
23. Mr Om Prakash Associate Executive Producer Rajya Sabha Television, New Delhi Email: [email protected]
24. 2Mrs Bina Paul Venugopal 3Artistic Director . 7th International Documentary and Short Film Festival of Kerala Sasthamangalam, Trivandum, Kerala – 695010 Email: [email protected] www.iffk.in, www.keralafilm.com
25. Mr Nimish Kapoor Scientist ‘D’ I/c Science Film Festival Division Vigyan Prasar, Plot no. A 50, Sector 62, Noida – 201 309, UP Email: [email protected], [email protected]
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