Hindi
Training programme for screenplay writers, finalists to pitch for film projects in Mumbai
NEW DELHI: After its three-year association with the Sundance Institute for the Mumbai Mantra – Sundance Screenwriters’ Lab has come to an end; Mumbai Mantra has now launched ‘The Mumbai Mantra CineRise Screenwriting Programme’, an 8-step lab for screenwriters.
In the first stage of submission, screenwriters need to submit a story on which the script will be based, in six to eight pages. This will be followed by the writer’s statement in just two pages outlining details of the project is about. Thirdly, the writer’s biodata will also have to be submitted with contact details.
Among the submitted applications, 100 stories will be selected for a two day screenwriting workshop which will be held in different cities across India. The finalists will have intensive interactions with experienced writers and directors at the workshop. The selected participants can choose the center closest to their homes.
After the workshop, the screenwriters will have two months to submit the first draft of their screenplays.
After intensive evaluation, twelve to fifteen or more deserving screenplays will be shortlisted for the final selection. These screenplays will be sent to the mentors and other experts, for detailed evaluation and notes.
The finalists will have intensive interactions with experienced writers and directors at the workshop. The selected participants can choose the center closest to their homes. The convenor for this programme will be Anjum Rajabali.
After receiving notes from the mentors, the writers will have one more month to send in the second drafts of their screenplays. The finalists will be invited to a five-day workshop at a resort destination with renowned writers and directors to help them revise their screenplays and then get them ready for a pitch event in Mumbai with studio heads, independent producers, directors, financiers, distributors, film festival directors and curators.
Aspiring script-writers for films can apply till 20 August for the ‘The Mumbai Mantra CineRise Screenwriting Programme’.
Hindi
Rajesh Ramaswamy exits The Script Room to focus on filmmaking journey
Ad filmmaker steps away from own venture to pursue direction and storytelling
MUMBAI: In a move that has caught the attention of the advertising and creative community, Rajesh Ramaswamy has announced his exit from The Script Room, the company he co-founded, marking the end of a seven-year stint at the helm.
The decision, which came into effect earlier this month, signals a shift in focus for Ramaswamy, who is now looking to immerse himself fully in filmmaking and direction as an independent creative.
Known for blending sharp advertising insight with storytelling craft, Ramaswamy has been instrumental in shaping The Script Room into a creative hub that delivered campaigns, branded content, and original storytelling formats. Over the years, the company collaborated with agencies, directors, and a wide network of writers, while also experimenting with formats such as short films and web series.
Sharing his thoughts on the transition, Ramaswamy indicated that the move is driven by a desire to focus and explore stories he has been developing over time. While he acknowledged the unconventional nature of stepping away from one’s own venture, he also framed it as a necessary leap toward clarity and creative pursuit.
Importantly, The Script Room will continue its operations with its current team and leadership, with Ramaswamy expressing confidence in the group that helped build the company’s identity. The studio, he noted, remains well-positioned to evolve further with fresh talent and ideas.
His exit also reflects a wider industry trend, where experienced advertising professionals are increasingly transitioning into independent filmmaking, tapping into the growing opportunities across digital and long-form content platforms.
As Ramaswamy steps into this new phase, the move underscores a familiar creative instinct, sometimes, the boldest ideas begin with a clean break.
