Pics by: Mummy Digital Studio
Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi (JD)
Udupi, Aug 9: As part of the 8th anniversary celebrations of Niranthar Udyavar, the ‘Niranthar Cinema Utsava – 2025’ was inaugurated on Friday, August 8, at Ave Maria Hall of Mother of Sorrows Church, Udupi.
Fr Denis D’Sa, PRO of the diocese of Udupi and parish priest of St Anne’s Church, Thottam, along with Michael Rodrigues, Udupi diocesan media coordinator, inaugurated the three-day film festival. The event is organized in association with Udupi Syndicate Credit Souharda Co-operative Society Ltd, Udupi. The festival will feature three award-winning Kannada films.
Screenings will begin each day at 6:30 pm, with free entry for the public. On the first day, the Kannada movie ‘Act 1978’ was screened. Kannada film ‘19.20.21’ will be screened on August 9 followed by ‘Photo’ on August 10. These films are acclaimed for their social relevance and critical recognition.
In his inaugural address, Fr Denis D’Sa praised the efforts of Niranthar Udyavar, Parichaya Pamboor, and Kalaradhan Pangla in continuously promoting theatre, cinema, and similar activities. “They are working towards bringing change in society through various programs. Cinema and plays are universal languages. Amid societal differences, they bring unity to the community. Our encouragement will always be there. Cinema is the mirror of society. While once used to unify, today it is sometimes misused to create division. Let us remember that a community hall has no religion. Students should give importance to dance, art, and such pursuits, develop their talents, and showcase them to society,” he said.
Addressing the gathering, Michael Rodrigues highlighted Niranthar Udyavar’s consistent support for art and culture over the past eight years. Speaking about Act 1978, he said, “This film showcases the atrocities of the powerful and what happens when a person rises against them. I wish all success for this film festival and for the continued efforts of Niranthar Udyavar.”
Present at the programme were Roshan Crasto, president of Niranthar Udyavar; Olivira Mathias, secretary; Sunil D’Souza, treasurer; Steevan Colaco, founder-president; Richard, president of Udupi Syndicate Credit Souharda Co-operative Society Ltd; Jacinta D’Souza; and film director Mansore.