Sanchi Foundation (R)

The Sanchi Foundation, in collaboration with Ninasam and Heggodu, announced its third annual short film workshop. Held from January 21st to 26th, 2017, at Heggodu, the residential camp invited applications until December 15th. With an entry fee of Rs 20,000 covering camp expenses, including meals and accommodation, only 20 candidates were accepted. Interested individuals could apply by the specified deadline for an immersive workshop experience in the art of short filmmaking.

Sanchi Foundation participated in a collaborative venture with Ninasam, Heggodu, a renowned theatre institute in India. Ninasam, Heggodu, celebrated for its contributions to art and culture, has played a pivotal role in shaping intellectuals, theatre personalities, and filmmakers. Recognized as one of the premier repertories, it boasts iconic productions in Indian theatre history, presenting over a hundred shows for each play annually during its two-decade existence. While traditionally documented through photographs and write-ups, Ninasam has recently embraced audio-visual documentation, aligning with the evolving landscape of technology and the growing importance of comprehensive documentation.

Sanchi Foundation actively engages in the promotion and exploration of Yakshagana, a traditional art form, through various creative initiatives. One such venture is the 'Dushshasana Vadhe Yakshagana,' a creative production conceived by the imaginative mind of 'Theatre Yaksha' in Udupi. Led by Prithviraj Kavathar, Theatre Yaksha has been a dynamic force in nurturing Yakshagana. Additionally, the Foundation delves into the nuances of different Yakshagana styles, such as the distinctive Badagu Thittu, known for its strong regional and individual performance traits in the Udupi and Kundapur regions. The organisation also explores the connection of Yakshagana and Kathakali, recognizing the intimate kinship between these two classical art forms from Karnataka and God's own country, respectively. Through these endeavours, Sanchi Foundation contributes to the preservation and appreciation of the rich cultural heritage embodied in Yakshagana.

Sanchi Foundation introduces its distinctive "Knowledge Series" or 'Gnana SaraNi,' as part of its mission to document Heritage and Contemporary art and knowledge disciplines. The inaugural lecture featured Dr. K. Ullas Karanth, a renowned conservation zoologist and prominent tiger expert. The talk, centred around "Today's Challenges in Environmental Protection," marked the commencement of this series. Accompanying Dr Karanth was Shekar Datatri, a national award-winning wildlife filmmaker, enhancing the depth and insight of the discussion on environmental issues. Sanchi Foundation, through the "Knowledge Series," aims to contribute to the preservation and dissemination of valuable insights across various domains of art and knowledge.

Sanchi Foundation is actively involved in raising awareness about the environmental concerns surrounding the Netravathi River Diversion Project, now termed the Yettinahole Diversion Project. The initiative aims to divert the west-flowing River Netravathi to the East, a move criticized for its potential harm to the Western Ghats' sensitive eco-system. Proposed by retired Irrigation Engineer Dr. Paramashivaiah, the project involves an extensive network of unlined open canals and reservoirs across the catchment area of River Netravathi. Despite the Government's rebranding to the 'Yettinahole Diversion Project,' the opposition remains strong in Dakshina Kannada District. The plan includes constructing eight dams on tributaries, raising concerns about the ecological impact and the displacement of local communities. Sanchi Foundation actively advocates against this project, emphasizing the need for environmental conservation and sustainable water management in the region.