Acclaimed Film-maker Mani Ratnam Enthralls Students at IIM Calcutta

Acclaimed Film-maker Mani Ratnam Enthralls Students at IIM Calcutta
Post-event Press-release

Citing an example, one among many humorous ones through his exchange with the audience members, he talked about how he had learnt the importance of connecting with the public after one of his first movies 'Mauna Ragam'.

He talked with fondness about his influences and inspirations and how having been an avid fan of world cinema, especially Latin American movies, had shaped his sensitivities. He also applauded the role India's parallel cinema movement had played in paving the way for a balanced approach to film-making for his generation. He also talked about works like 'Rang De Basanti' done by his contemporaries, which was creating higher standards for everyone. Replying to another question, he did state though that he did not identify with the solution suggested in the movie.

He had an unconventional take on the issue of piracy and stated that it shows that people are willing to pay for different modes of film-exhibition and film-makers need to device ways to tap that.

There were several questions on how difficult it was for a person with no background in the industry to join films and the role that a management graduate could play. To this he said that one needs conviction and proper understanding to enter any untested waters and films were no different. In fact, film industry is always in the need for people with good education and the ability to lend some order to the chaos.

To one of the final questions about his peeves with the industry, he replied that it was still a place where one is not treated equally. Before a successful film, a person is looked down upon, and the moment he delivers a hit, he is raised on a pedestal. Things were improving but one still needed belief in oneself to handle the pressure.

The session lasted close to two hours, during which Mr. Mani Ratnam was quizzed on several other film-related issues and he regaled the audience with his good-humored answers. The interactive session was followed by a short round of the scenic IIM Calcutta campus and more informal discussion with students and professors. Mr. Ratnam was clearly excited being back to college away from the lights, camera and action of his movies.

Concluded.

Contributed by -
Vijay Anand Menon,
External Relations Secretary,
IIM Calcutta.

MBA Alumni \| MBA Students \| MBA Aspirants \| MBA Forums