The discussion focused on the trends in cinema and offered insights into the history of cinema in India, world cinema, the art and the craft of film-making. Various issues like corporation of the film industry, censorship and the technological advancements in the field were also discussed.

The afternoon session saw discussion with cinematographer Sunny Joseph, Head of Department, LV Prasad, Film and TV Academy, Chennai, who has been a part of films like ‘A Train to Pakistan’. For once, science and art met each other. The discussion ranged from biology, philosophy, technology, history and spirituality that meet in cinema.

The evening ended with an interactive session with Kamal Nathani and the screening of his film, The Hope. Nathani, who started his career with Chashme Badoor in 1981 as production controller, has more than 400 documentaries to his credit and has produced about 300 ad films.

Nathani, who believes in realistic cinema or parallel cinema, opined that film-makers have great responsibilities as people of all age groups are influenced by the projects they make. Times have changed and children falling under the age group of 12 to 15 are very intelligent, therefore sensible cinema is required for them too, he said.

The Hope is the first film written and directed by Nathani. His future projects include a first-ever Himachali movie. He also has the first video film of India titled ‘Doctor Doctor’ on his name.

His feature film The Hope is a depiction of how political and religious divides breed hatred. The film captures the triumph of life while living over these divides. The story is inspired by the situation in Kashmir. The film has been chalked on bold lines to stir the audiences. The story revolves around five characters comprising three commandos, a terrorist and a woman. The film presents the dilemma, trauma and frustration army officers suffer when they have to release and protect a terrorist who has been apprehended after sacrifices of many soldiers.

The final day of the festival has been planned to attract large number of audience from all age groups. Interactive session with famous directors like Anil Sharma, who has blockbusters like Gadar- Ek Prem Katha, Hero- Love story of a spy and Apne to his credit and Pammi Sommal, of Mummy ji fame, are on the cards.