Early Times Report
JAMMU, Nov 3: The Department of Journalism and Media Studies, University of Jammu organised guest lecture on Documentary Making, wherein seasoned media professional and former director Doordarshan Kashmir, Dr. Nasib Singh Manhas was the resource person.
The session was aimed to familiarise students with the creative, technical, and practical facets of documentary production, which aligns with the vision and commitment of Vice Chancellor, University of Jammu, Prof. Umesh Rai of bridging the industry-academia divide.
Welcoming the guest, Head of the Department, Prof Dushyant Kumar Rai said, "Documentary filmmaking serves as a vital medium of public record, truth, and democratic discourse," adding, "As media students, your lens must become a tool for objective inquiry and empathetic documentation. Engaging directly with industry experts allow you to bridge classroom theory with ground realities, helping you develop the critical thinking, aesthetic sensitivity, and technical acumen needed to produce work of lasting societal relevance.".
Appreciating the department of Journalism and Media Studies for organising such a timely lecture, Prof. Garima Gupta, Head of the Department of Foreign Languages, University of Jammu said, "Documentary cinema is a universal language that transcends linguistic and geographic borders. By mastering the art of visual storytelling, media students have the unique opportunity to take localized human experiences and indigenous histories to a broader, global audience, developing intercultural dialogue and deeper empathy."
Other faculty members present on the occasion included Dr. Kumerjit Chajgotra, Dr. Ramiyan Bhardwaj, and Dr. Renu Kotwal.
Earlier, addressing the students, Dr. Nasib Singh Manhas described documentary filmmaking as a rigorous audio-visual craft that synthesises visuals, sound design, narration, and structured storytelling to address real-world events, communities, and pressing socio-political concerns. He emphasised that meticulous background research, factual integrity, thoughtful visual framing, and clean sound capture constitute the core pillars of credible documentary work.
He also shared insights about two documentaries that he has directed recently, including 'Curfew' and 'Saviour of Kashmir'. Giving brief about 'Saviour of Kashmir', Dr Manhas drew focus to the historical developments of October 1947, examining how documentary techniques can chronicle historical valour, specifically the decisive role played by Brigadier Rajinder Singh Jamwal in defending Jammu and Kashmir during the tribal invasion.
Dr. Manhas further engaged in an extensive Q&A session with the students, outlining solutions to core operational challenges, including archival retrieval, field logistics, uthentic source verification, and location-sound management. Students were also introduced to Non-Linear Editing (NLE) environments, exploring how digital post- production tools are utilised to construct pacing, rhythm, and coherence in the final cut.
In the end, Dr Pardeep Singh extended formal vote of thanks, whereas Dr Ravia Gupta conducted the session aptly. |
