To promote technical skills, artistic development, and access to a creative platform, a two-week training called “Art for People” began in the capital today. The training will focus on filmmaking and aims to provide quality education in the performing arts. Participants will receive hands-on training in areas such as writing, directing, cinematography, sound, editing and production design, among others.
Despite producing around 20 films annually, the industry is challenged with limited access to modern technical training, a lack of skilled professionals, and weak marketing and distribution systems. These challenges continue to hinder the industry from reaching its full potential.
To help bridge these gaps, the training programme is bringing together 35 aspiring filmmakers and seven trainers from Bhutan and India to build skills and strengthen the film industry.
“I have always believed that art is not solely created for aesthetic sake. It’s a very powerful tool that initiates personal reflection, raises collective awareness, and if you are lucky, it may even inspire social change. So that’s why I feel that art for people is important,” said Chandra Kumar Rai, Organiser.
“Especially for Bhutan, which is very rich in culture and legend in folk tales, I think this workshop should give them confidence to be able to make stories of their own,” said Rangoli Agarwal, Trainer.
Participants expressed excitement about learning new skills and contributing to the performing arts.
“As a theatre performer, I believe this training would help me improve further. Moreover, I think it will play a big role in raising awareness about performing arts to the larger audience,” said Sonam Choki, a participant.
“For a very Long time, I always wanted to tell stories, but as a novice, I did not have any platform or opportunity to learn the skill of storytelling. So for me, other people came as a boon, where I can get an opportunity to interact with the industry, with veterans, and through them I can also learn how to polish my storytelling skills,” said Pema Dorji, also a participant.
According to the organiser, the training will help shape a new generation of Bhutanese filmmakers who are ready to contribute to the local industry and connect with international audiences.
The programme will end with a national film event, where participants will showcase their final projects and receive certificates of completion.
The initiative is organised by Golan Pictures and supported by BICMA through the Economic Stimulus Programme.
Namgay Wangdi
Edited by Sonam Pem
