Masterclasses 2026

4 April 2026

Masterclass-1

4 PM to 5 PM

Hindi Film Music - A Different Perspective through History.

Synopsis:  Hindi film music is not merely a form of entertainment; it is a reflection of our time, society, and collective emotions. Based on the book Cinema Saptak, this masterclass by Aniruddha Sharma traces the journey of Hindi film music from 1931 to the present, exploring how each era developed its own distinct sound, identity, and sensibility.

The session goes beyond a historical overview to examine the external forces that have shaped film music over the decades, such as evolving technology, political climates, social change, and market dynamics. From the age of gramophone recordings to today’s digital streaming platforms, the transformation of film music is as much about shifting ideas as it is about changing tools.

A key focus of the masterclass is understanding how film music differs from classical traditions, while simultaneously drawing from them. It highlights how film music adapted complex musical forms into accessible expressions, making them part of the popular consciousness.

At its core, the session offers a new way of engaging with music:
not just to listen, but to truly understand.

In today’s world, where film music has become an inseparable part of our daily lives—shaping memories, emotions, and cultural identity, this masterclass invites participants to recognize and reflect on that deep connection.

This is not just a session about music—
it is an experience that changes the way you hear it.
Aniruddha-Sharma

Aniruddha Sharma

“Aniruddha Sharma is an author, screenwriter, musician, and filmmaker. He has worked as a writer, director, and lyricist across various film projects. His book Cinema Saptak, an extensive study of Hindi film music from 1931 to 1999, was recently honored with the prestigious “Vageeshwari Samman” by the Madhya Pradesh Hindi Sahitya Sammelan, and he is regarded as a respected name in Indian literary circles. As a filmmaker, he has written and directed films ranging from short to feature length, with ongoing creative work across multiple formats. With his multidisciplinary experience in literature, music, and cinema, he brings a rich and nuanced perspective to the world of filmmaking.”

5 April 2026

Masterclass-2

4 PM to 5 PM

Acting Masterclass by Niharika Sigh: Realistic Acting

Synopsis: Welcome to our transformative acting workshop where we delve into the essence of the craft – where acting is not merely pretending but living truthfully under imaginary circumstances. In this workshop, we go beyond the surface of acting. We believe that acting is not just about saying lines or portraying emotions; it’s about doing. It’s about living truthfully in the given circumstances, no matter how imaginary it may seem. Acting is doing and there is always more to do. This workshop offers a unique opportunity to explore the depths of your acting abilities and unlock your true potential.

Niharika Singh

Niharika Singh is an accomplished theater and film personality. She is visiting expert faculty for acting with the National School of Drama (NSD) and has been head of acting faculty with Barry John Acting Studio. She has acted in and mentored a number of internationally acclaimed and award-winning films. She has her own film production house and has produced and directed a number of documentary films. As a psychologist, she brings a unique and valuable perspective to the performing arts. She is the founder member of the Society for Culture & Environment which organizes The Bhopal Literature and Art Festival every year in Bhopal.