AISFM gets new dean

Renowned writer and director Bala Rajasekharuni has joined Annapurna International School of Film and Media (AISFM) as the Dean of Academics. With an MFA in screenwriting from University of California-Riverside, an MA in Theatre and Cinema from University of Wisconsin-Madison and an MA in Theatre Arts from University of Hyderabad, Bala taught in film and theatre departments, conducted workshops in educational settings like special schools and correctional facilities, for the past 20 years, in the United States.

Bala divides his time between USA and India, undertaking production endeavours and teaching. Sharing his thoughts on taking on the new role, Bala said, “I believe film and media education is at its best when a school can create a dynamic synergy between academic rigour and hands-on industry experience for their students.

Today, western and eastern worlds are actively sharing knowledge, expertise and innovation in all fields including film and media. For instance, until recently Hollywood used to hire Indian talent only in the areas of post-production like animation and VFX. Now, they’ve opened doors in other areas like acting, directing, screenwriting, production and studio management.”