Bollywood Director Inspires Student Filmmakers in Visit to ICS

High school theater students at ICS got a glimpse of what life is like in the movie industry, as one of Bollywood’s biggest directors joined them on campus.

Director Srikanth (Sri) Velagaleti, who is well known for directing Bollywood films like Utt Pataang and Cheaters: The Vacation, spoke with IB Diploma Programme theater students about creating original stories, technical elements of film production, and strategies for professional advancement.

“Sri’s foundational knowledge in film without a doubt opened my eyes to the endless possibilities within the entertainment space,” DP Theater student Bessy said after his visit, mentioning specifically her interest in developing writing skills that can also transfer to her music and English classes.”

But it didn’t just stop at academics. Several students in the class said they gained a wide range of insight as Sri shared his experiences in the movie industry and the different skills and dispositions required to succeed.

Students said Sri explained that becoming a star actor or director doesn’t come right away, and that there is value in living the professional journey. Essential to the process are developing communications skills, building relationships, and learning how to resolve conflicts in a professional and productive manner.

Several of the students mentioned their takeaways from Sri about using mindfulness to overcome challenges.

“He taught us about how to deal with stress, which according to him was to develop a sport like swimming or running, or having a good walking routine,” Even, another student, said. “Meditation can also help reduce stress.”

Bessy agreed: “As IB students, we tend to stress out really easily, so I completely support the idea of moving around and keeping your blood pumping.”

DP Theater Teacher Rebecca Gillman was thrilled to invite Sri to speak with her students. She saw the visit from an expert with a wealth of professional experience as a chance to make learning relevant and real for her students.

“When conceptual understanding is transferred to the real world, learning runs deeper and lasts,” Rebecca said. “Though there are obvious differences between film and theatre, these lessons from Bollywood seamlessly transferred into our ensemble work of devising original pieces and staging play texts. I look forward to seeing Sri’s advice play out in lessons, workshops, and rehearsal sessions to come.”