Hindi
Vidya Balan marks a decade in cinema; receives Doctorate from Rai University
NEW DELHI: Actress Vidya Balan – known to take on challenging roles and win laurels – has been conferred a Doctor of Arts Honoris Causa by the Ahmedabad-based Rai University. Balan also completed ten years in the film industry this week.
The honour was given earlier this week in appreciation of her contributions to Indian cinema over the past 10 years. Her endeavour to bring out the strong side of a woman in films has contributed to women’s empowerment in society, Rai University chancellor, Dr. Harbeen Arora, said.
The actress thanked God, her parents, the university and “each and every one of you” among the media present at the convocation at the J.W. Marriott International.
The University also announced an annual scholarship named Balan, and she said she was tongue-tied.
She said, “I must also thank my husband Siddharth (Roy Kapur of Disney) even if he is embarrassed by what I am going to say. And that is that just by being with him, I have become a better person! I would like you to be with me all my life and I have to tell you that I will be with you all your life too!”
“It is truly humbling and overwhelming to receive this honour. What makes this even more special is that I complete ten years in the Hindi film industry this year. There can be no bigger compliment for any actor than to have done work that has made a significant mark and also to be looked upon as a role model by young Indians. I hope to live up to the title,” said Balan.
Her parents, sister’s family and her mother-in-law were also present.
“Among the league of iconic actors, Vidya is a pioneer in every way. Her films epitomize a distinct Indian-ness and powerful womanhood,” Arora said. The citation mentioned all the key films in Balan’s career.
Balan has received the four highest civilian award ‘Padma Shri’, a National Award, and Filmfare awards.
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.
