The Awaz – Media & Drama Club of the Centre for Media and Mass Communication Studies (CMMS), Jamia Hamdard, has officially launched its Weekly Film Screening initiative with the inspiring motto “Understand the magic of cinema with us.” This new initiative aims to provide students a unique platform to explore cinema not just for entertainment, but also for learning about the art, craft, and deeper meaning behind filmmaking.
The inaugural screening, held on Friday, 8th August, featured the critically acclaimed thriller Dhamaka, directed by Ram Madhvani and starring Kartik Aaryan and Mrunal Thakur in lead roles. The choice of film was deliberate, offering students a fresh perspective on how powerful stories can be told even with significant production limitations. Shot entirely during the COVID-19 lockdown in a single hotel location, the film demonstrates how creativity, technical expertise, and strong performances can come together to deliver an impactful viewing experience without the need for large-scale sets or extended shooting schedules.
Dhamaka not only entertained the audience but also raised important questions about media ethics, TRP-driven journalism, and the responsibility of news channels in shaping public opinion. Through the gripping storyline of a news anchor caught in a web of breaking news, political pressure, and moral dilemmas, Jamia Hamdard students were able to reflect on the realities of the modern media landscape.
Prior to the screening, a special technical session was conducted by Jamia Hamdard student Zoya Naqvi focusing on aspects such as camera work, use of lighting in confined spaces, set design within limited resources, and the use of VFX to enhance the narrative. This allowed participants to approach the film with a more analytical mindset, appreciating the craft that went into its making.
The event drew an enthusiastic response, with over 120 students from multiple departments across the university attending, making the hall completely packed. The diversity of the audience underscored the universal appeal of cinema as a medium of storytelling that transcends academic disciplines.
Adding to the interactive nature of the program, a short quiz was organised by Farhan Omar after the screening, testing participants’ recall, observation, and interpretation of the film. Winners were presented with small gifts, creating a sense of excitement and rewarding attentive viewing.
The screening was organised under the guidance of Prof. Dr. Reshma Nasreen (Director, CMMS) and Faculty Coordinators Dr. A.Q. Siddiqui and Dr. Nisa Askari. Their support and encouragement have been instrumental in conceptualising and executing this new weekly cultural and educational activity.
Student President Muddassir Rashid led the event with the dedicated support of the Awaz team, with the support of team members Zoya Naqvi, Tushar Sharma, Shumaila Fatma, Zeent, Suhail, Adyan, Khadija, Arsh, Salik, Heena, Afreen, Iram, Zabeeba, Farhan, Afaf, Samiya, Areeba, Washi, Nahid, and Hayat.
Looking ahead, the club plans to curate a diverse lineup of films from different genres, cultures, and languages, ensuring that each screening not only entertains but also educates and inspires. By combining cinema appreciation with critical discussions, the Club hopes to foster a deeper understanding of how films influence society, reflect cultural narratives, and drive social change.
