Independence Day 2026 | Jagat Murari and FTII: Where India’s filmmaking rebels were made

Jagat Murari, the founder of the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII), placed great importance on nurturing the unique voices of his young students and fostering their individuality. When the Institute was established in the 1960s, it started with a modest annual budget of just ₹3 lakh, facing shortages in faculty and resources.

In response, Murari invited renowned filmmakers like David Lean, Satyajit Ray, and Ritwik Ghatak as guest lecturers, bringing their expertise and diverse perspectives to the students. This, coupled with an annual roster of 50 guest instructors, allowed FTII students to learn from the best in the industry and engage in passionate debates.

The Institute also screened a vast array of international films, exposing students to a wide range of cinematic styles and techniques. The institute's emphasis on "learning by doing" and hands-on filmmaking allowed students to explore and express their own unique styles. Alumni of FTII, such as Jaya Bachchan and Shabana Azmi, credited their time at the Institute for shaping their careers and providing them with the courage to think independently and create impactful cinema.