Hindi
ZEE5 Original ‘Despatch’ shines at MAMI Film Festival 2024
Mumbai: ZEE5 announced the successful showcase of its original movie Despatch, starring Manoj Bajpayee, at the MAMI Film Festival 2024. The Gala Premiere on 19 October received positive feedback, highlighting the film’s exploration of the darker side of journalism and the ethical challenges reporters face. A panel discussion followed the screening, delving into the filmmaking process and themes like truth, power, and responsibility in media.
Directed by Kanu Behl, Despatch blends suspense with a moral inquiry into media dynamics. Manoj Bajpayee’s portrayal of a crime reporter grappling with professional and personal ethics stands out, supported by performances from Shahana Goswami and Archita Agarwal.
ZEE5 India chief business officer Manish Kalra stated, “We are thrilled by the overwhelming response that Despatch received at the MAMI Film Festival. This success highlights ZEE5’s commitment to bringing original content that not only entertains but also sparks meaningful dialogue. Cinema’s power to connect through compelling storytelling is at the heart of what we do, and Despatch is a perfect example. Manoj Bajpayee’s outstanding performance, combined with Kanu Behl’s direction, has made this project one we’re incredibly proud of. We look forward to bringing this impactful film to a wider audience as we continue to push boundaries in content creation.”
An RSVP spokesperson said, “Despatch is a gripping exploration of the dark side of crime journalism and the moral dilemmas it brings. We are beyond proud of the response it received at the MAMI Festival. Partnering with MAMI has given Despatch the perfect platform to debut, and we are excited for its journey ahead as it reaches a wider audience on ZEE5. We believe this narrative dives deep into the human condition, and we’re thrilled to see it resonate with such a discerning audience.”
Behl said, “Directing Despatch has been an incredible experience, and I am immensely grateful to have had Manoj Bajpayee bring our vision to life with his remarkable performance. His ability to embody the complexities of the character adds incredible depth to the storytelling, allowing audiences to truly connect with the narrative. Screening at the MAMI Festival has been a wonderful opportunity to share this powerful story, and I can’t wait for viewers to experience the movie in its entirety when it premieres on ZEE5.”
The screening of Despatch at MAMI reinforces ZEE5’s position as a platform for diverse, high-quality storytelling that tackles important societal issues. As part of ZEE5’s focus on impactful content, *Despatch* has gained attention for its portrayal of power, information, and ethics in journalism. With its suspenseful plot and Manoj Bajpayee’s strong performance, the film adds to ZEE5’s growing slate of socially relevant original content.
Hindi
Shekhar Suman opens acting academy in Mumbai
The veteran actor-presenter launches SSFA, promising immersive, mentorship-led training for aspiring actors and storytellers
Mumbai: Forty years in front of the camera, and Shekhar Suman still isn’t done. The actor, host, writer and director, one of Indian entertainment’s most restless polymaths, is now training his sights on the next generation, launching the Shekhar Suman Film Academy (SSFA) in Mumbai on 22nd April 2026. Registrations for the inaugural batch are already open.
SSFA pitches itself squarely against formula-driven acting schools, leading with an intensive three-month programme that Suman says he personally designed and will largely conduct himself. The curriculum blends voice and speech work, emotional access, body awareness and camera technique with the Linklater Voice Method, film language and on-set discipline, and rounds off with a student film, giving trainees their first taste of a real set.
Masterclasses with actors, casting directors and filmmakers sit alongside the core course. The academy is conceived as a platform that will eventually sprawl into screenwriting, direction, cinematography, music production and post-production: a full creative ecosystem rather than a single acting school.
“For me, this academy is not just an institution. It is a very personal way of giving back to the craft that has given me everything,” said Suman. “Over the years, acting has taught me discipline, imagination, resilience, and the importance of truth in performance. Through this academy, I hope to create something that goes beyond training and becomes a true creative journey for every student who walks in.”
Behind the scenes, the academy is backed by GBM Studios. Dharmesh Sangani, founder and visionary, is the driving force, bringing what the academy describes as “a focused approach to creating meaningful opportunities within the industry.” Adhyayan Suman, founder and director and Shekhar’s son, adds a performer’s perspective honed across acting, music and direction. Ekant Babani, partner and chief operating officer, handles strategy and operations.
Entry is deliberately low-barrier. No prior training is needed: applicants sit a basic self-audition test, shifting the focus firmly to potential rather than polish. The academy says it aims to stay accessible while delivering a premium, hands-on experience.
In a country where acting schools multiply almost as fast as OTT platforms, Suman’s personal stamp and his willingness to stand in the room and teach may be the sharpest edge SSFA has. For those ready to test that promise, the curtain is already up. Apply at shekharsumanfilmacademy.com
