STATE TIMES NEWS
JAMMU: The valedictory function of the 17th PRAKRITI: International Documentary Film Festival concluded on a high note at the University of Jammu (JU), marking the successful culmination of two days of compelling screenings and meaningful dialogue. The festival, themed around Environment, Development, Human Rights, and Swachh Bharat, showcased films that highlighted social issues, indigenous knowledge, and human resilience.
Padma Shri awardee Prof. Lalit Magotra, a distinguished alumnus of the University, graced the occasion as the Chief Guest, while the function was presided over by Vice-Chancellor Prof. Umesh Rai. Also present were Prof. Parikshit Singh Manhas, Director, CEC; Prof. Neelu Rohmetra, Dean Research Studies; and Sunil Mehru, Joint Director, CEC.
Addressing the gathering, Prof. Magotra described the festival as a landmark initiative, emphasizing that documentaries serve not only as sources of information but also as instruments of social responsibility, creativity, and awareness. He urged students to appreciate storytelling techniques, visual language, and the nuanced power of silence in cinema.
Prof. Rai highlighted the festival’s academic value, noting that experiential learning through documentary cinema bridges the gap between theory and real-world knowledge. He stressed that education must go beyond textbooks, integrating indigenous wisdom and practical experiences from daily life, while inspiring students to engage responsibly with society.
Prof. Manhas expressed gratitude to the University for hosting the festival and reflected on the transformative power of documentaries as mirrors of society. He emphasized that in the age of digital transformation and AI, education must extend into technology-driven, experiential environments, nurturing socially conscious and responsible citizens.
Sunil Mehru noted that the two-day festival explored diverse landscapes-from sinking islands and lavender fields to urban centers-documenting stories of climate change, grassroots innovation, migration, and dignity of labour. He called on participants to carry forward the festival’s spirit, where cinema informs, inspires, and drives meaningful change.
Prof. Neelu Rohmetra delivered the vote of thanks, acknowledging the Chief Guest, Vice-Chancellor, filmmakers, jury members, faculty, students, and organizing teams. Awards were presented to winning filmmakers, each receiving Rs 50,000, a trophy, and a certificate. Students who staged a dramatic rendition of Rashmirathi were also felicitated.
The festival witnessed enthusiastic participation from students, scholars, civil society members, and media professionals, reinforcing the University of Jammu’s commitment to promoting cinema as a medium of knowledge, creativity, and social transformation.