In a landmark initiative to nurture emerging film talent across India, the newly launched Screen Academy — a not-for-profit venture supported by the Lodha Foundation and spearheaded is set to provide fully-funded postgraduate fellowships to aspiring filmmakers. The Academy aims to democratize access to quality film education and will work closely with top Indian film institutes to identify students with extraordinary storytelling talent but limited financial resources.
Backed by Icons of Indian Cinema
The Academy boasts an impressive and diverse advisory panel featuring Cannes and Oscar winners such as Guneet Monga, Payal Kapadia, Resul Pookutty, and veteran screenwriter Anjum Rajabali, who will head the selection committee.
In collaboration with premier institutions like FTII (Pune), SRFTI (Kolkata), and Whistling Woods International (Mumbai), the Screen Academy Fellowships 2025 will fully support tuition and related costs for postgraduate study. More institutions are expected to be added as the initiative scales.
Government and Industry Support
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis lauded the initiative’s timing and Mumbai-based launch, calling it deeply aligned with the city’s historic role in Indian cinema.
Anant Goenka, Executive Director of The Indian Express Group, emphasized the need to institutionalize cultural excellence:
“We will create an ecosystem that not only celebrates excellence but actively nurtures diverse and promising talent with both financial aid and access.”
Abhishek Lodha, Founding Patron from the Lodha Foundation, noted the Academy’s role in India’s soft power:
“Films and creative arts are a key strength of our nation, and the Screen Academy will help India become a global leader in this space.”
Mentorship and Industry Integration
In addition to scholarships, fellows will have access to a robust mentorship programme that includes masterclasses, internships, and long-term industry guidance from leading studios and professionals.
Film school directors have welcomed the initiative:
- Dhiraj Singh (FTII) praised the collaboration with Screen, calling it a meaningful and respected addition to India’s film education space.
- Samiran Dutta (SRFTI) highlighted how the fellowship would bridge financial gaps for students from remote and rural backgrounds.
- Meghna Ghai Puri (Whistling Woods) called it a transformational opportunity, saying: “This partnership is rooted in shared values — excellence, inclusivity, and nurturing storytellers of tomorrow.”
A Boost to Storytelling and Screenwriting
Panel head Anjum Rajabali called the programme a vital investment in India’s creative ecosystem:
“These scholarships will help in driving up the quality of writing and filmmaking in India, providing the industry with a much-needed pipeline of trained talent.”
Applications for the fellowship can be made via With a focus on education, representation, and recognition, the Academy promises to become a cornerstone in India’s cultural and cinematic development.
