For research and documentation of the history and practice of cinematography in India, throwing fresh light on visual aesthetics. The study is expected to result in articles for film magazines and journals and a possible book on Indian cinematography. The resulting material will be placed with institutions that teach and archive film.
For the development of a new analysis of the evolution and structure of ragas in Hindustani classical music based on movements and their interplay. The ensuing publication in Hindi and Marathi is expected to facilitate the teaching of raga sangeet at music institutions and university departments.
For research and documentation of the educational practices within the performing art traditions of Kerala. The study will lead to a teaching methodology for a proposed school for the performing arts, with a specific focus on modern dance. Audio and video recordings and a computerised information bank are the anticipated outcomes.
For preparatory research towards the development of a concept and treatment for a film on the crafts persons of Shahjahanabad. The study will document personal histories, religio-spiritual foundations of crafts traditions, and the effects of unplanned urbanisation on the cultural ethos of the area.
For a grant supporting the creation of multiple artistic interpretations of Nabarun Bhattacharya’s novel Lubdhak. A graphic novel which will serve as a script for a feature length stop motion animation film later, will be created in the process. An electronic version of the graphic novel and a prototype of a short film for the animation will also be made. Grant funds will cover travel and food costs, material, props and lighting costs, professional fees, studio rental, documentation and an accountant’s fee.
For exploring the socio-cultural, historical and psychological understandings of doll traditions in southern Tamil Nadu, towards creating a new language of performance. Through an investigation into the myths, movements, language, songs and politics of these doll traditions, the study seeks a deeper understanding of the nuanced performative elements embedded in these traditions. The outcome of the research will be a performance script.
