SAIIER 2018:“Auroville – From seed to sapling”
 “Panorama of Contemporary Indian Cinema” |
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 Auroville Archives |
| “Auroville – From seed to sapling” A project of Aurofilm | ||
by Jinu Thomas
“Auroville – From seed to sapling” is a documentary film directed by Jinu Thomas, which aims to act as a window to Auroville’s intriguing journey over a period of 50 years. The purpose of the project was to document Auroville’s growth through the insights of its diverse population and to outline its past, its present and its possible future.
Description of project:
The project is an initiative of Entity::Aurofilm and is supported by Outreach Media. The film is a film-making experience and research that will result in a documentary about Auroville in English. (Duration to be finalized very soon)
Outcome:
Through the collaboration of volunteers and Aurovilians, a documentary was made. The film benefited the volunteers who helped make it by giving them exposure and the opportunity to interact with the people who helped build and preserve Auroville. It also will benefit the community of Auroville itself as it documents its growth, and covers the various perspectives of its unique inhabitants. The documentary also offers an expansive and insightful take on the time-line of Auroville, which could be helpful for those who are not familiar with Auroville.
Reflections:
The documentary provided us with the amazing opportunity to interact with the pioneers of Auroville and the youth of Auroville alike. It was humbling to be welcomed into their homes and listen to their personal stories and opinions. We did face certain technical and logistical challenges but they were overcome after consulting external help and collaboration.
Conclusion:
Making the documentary was a wonderful experience which inspired the team to take the project further and maybe make a series of short videos covering specific aspects of Auroville. As the place and its people are so intricate and diverse, it's almost impossible to cover it all in a single film.
See also