MUSCAT : The third edition of Indian Schools Film Festival 2021, the greatest platform to channelize students’ burgeoning potential and to produce the best film makers, organized by the Board of Directors, Indian schools in Oman, was inaugurated at a dignified virtual function by Indian School Al Maabela, the host School of ISFF 2021, on 17^th February 2022.

The grand inaugural ceremony commenced with the lighting of the lamp and an invocation song by the school choir. The Chief Guest Mr. Humaid Bin Saeed Bin Rashid Al Ameri, a renowned writer, film director, and the President of Omani Society for Cinema and theatre, enhanced the grandeur of the occasion with his august presence. Dr. Sivakumar  Manickam, Chairman, Board of Directors of Indian Schools, Sultanate of Oman, Mr. Sirajudheen Nhelat, Academic Chair, Board of Directors, and  Mr Sujithkumar S, President, School Management Committee, ISAM graced the occasion.      

The ceremonial unveiling of ISFF Statuette marked the official inauguration of ISFF 2021, the confluence of cinematic virtuosity. Dr. Sivakumar Manickam, Chairman, Board of Directors of Indian Schools, Sultanate of Oman, in his introductory note, highlighted the influence of social media among the people and acknowledged that art aids learning outcome. “Films have a three-fold impact on society, particularly the young people – they are a source of learning, motivation and entertainment,” Dr. Manickam said. Mr. Sujithkumar S, President, School Management Committee, ISAM, greeted and cordially welcomed the chief guest and other dignitaries present in the function.

The Chief Guest Mr. Humaid Bin Saeed Bin Rashid Al Ameri expressed his joy in participating in the Film Festival and wished success and good luck to all the budding, enthusiastic film-makers. In his felicitation speech, Mr. Sirajudheen Nhelat, Academic Chair, reflected on the positive impact of films on the upcoming generation.

The rollicking track of the theme song of ISFF 2021 by the school choir provided the viewers with the iconic magical moments and the images of the euphoric experiences. An outstanding fusion of dances presented by the young dynamic students of ISAM feasted the eyes of the onlookers. The ISFF 2021 Preview was flashed through a short presentation.

While the inaugural ceremony came to an end with the expression of gratitude by Mr. Vijay Velayudhan, Convenor, SMC and Chairperson of sports and co-curricular subcommittee of ISAM and the rendition of school anthem, it marked the beginning of the first day of live streaming of the nominated short films under various genres and categories.