By: Raja Zahid A Khanzada
Abu Dhabi : In a landmark event celebrating the centennial of Indian cinema, the International Indian Film Academy (IIFA) presents a special screening and MasterClass with celebrated filmmaker **Rakeysh Om Prakash Mehra**, hosted by the dynamic **Mini Mathur**. The event will take place on Saturday, 28th September, at the Yas Creative Hub in Abu Dhabi, in partnership with the **Abu Dhabi Film Commission** and the **Creative Media Authority**.
This exclusive session will honor the illustrious journey of Indian cinema, offering attendees the rare chance to experience it through the lens of a visionary filmmaker. Mehra, known for redefining contemporary Indian cinema with films like *Rang De Basanti* and *Bhaag Milkha Bhaag*, has crafted narratives that blend powerful socio-cultural themes with his unique visual storytelling. His work has garnered acclaim both in India and internationally, making him a trailblazer in the industry.
As part of the event, a special screening of the documentary *Bollywood: The Greatest Love Story* will be held. Co-directed by Mehra and **Jeffrey Zimbalist**, the film masterfully captures the century-long journey of Indian cinema—from its origins to its profound global influence today.
**Mr. Andre Timmins**, Founder/Director of IIFA, shared his excitement, saying, “We are incredibly honored to celebrate 100 years of Indian cinema with this exclusive IIFA screening and MasterClass featuring the visionary Rakeysh Om Prakash Mehra, hosted by the charismatic Mini Mathur. In collaboration with the Abu Dhabi Film Commission and Creative Media Authority, we aim to deepen the global appreciation for Indian cinema’s remarkable evolution. This event will not only pay homage to the incredible legacy of Indian cinema but also provide a unique platform for film enthusiasts, aspiring filmmakers, and students to engage with one of the most iconic directors of our time.”
The MasterClass promises to be an insightful journey into the creative mind of Mehra. Under the expert moderation of Mini Mathur, the session will delve deep into the artistic process, inspirations, challenges, and milestones of Mehra’s career, as well as the making of *Bollywood: The Greatest Love Story*. Participants will gain exclusive insights into the nuances of storytelling, the challenges of creating impactful cinema, and the director’s tribute to 100 years of Indian cinematic excellence.
**An Unmissable Opportunity for Cinema Lovers and Aspiring Filmmakers**
This special MasterClass is designed for passionate film enthusiasts, aspiring filmmakers, and students of media studies who are keen to explore the depths of the filmmaking world. With the opportunity to learn directly from a visionary filmmaker like Mehra, attendees will gain invaluable knowledge about the craft of filmmaking, storytelling techniques, and the future of Indian cinema. The interactive platform will also offer networking opportunities, allowing participants to connect with fellow creatives and industry experts.
The event begins with a screening of *Bollywood: The Greatest Love Story*, followed by an in-depth MasterClass with Mehra, where the director will provide personal insights into his career, his creative decisions, and his thoughts on the future of Indian cinema.
The IIFA event promises to be a once-in-a-lifetime experience, offering an in-depth exploration of Indian cinema’s rich history, while celebrating its enduring influence on global audiences. For aspiring filmmakers and cinema lovers alike, it’s an unparalleled chance to immerse in the magic of Indian cinema and engage with one of the most celebrated filmmakers of this era.
**About IIFA**
The International Indian Film Academy (IIFA) is a global platform that celebrates the achievements of Indian cinema. It aims to bridge cultural divides through the magic of movies while fostering a deeper appreciation of the art of filmmaking.
Be sure to join the celebration of Indian cinema’s 100-year journey, and gain insights into the filmmaking world with Rakeysh Om Prakash Mehra’s MasterClass at Yas Creative Hub on 28th September!
