New Delhi students' films shortlisted at BAFTA's 'Faith Shorts'

Three short films by Delhi school students have been shortlisted in the 'Faiths' category at the British Academy of film and Television Arts (BAFTA) awards this year.

Ishita Gupta (14), Mudit Muraka (15) and Sujit Roy (17) along with 12 others stand a chance to be flown to London to have their film premiered at a red carpet event at 195 Piccadilly, the home of BAFTA, organiser Tony Blair Faith Foundation announced.

Judged by former British Prime Minister Tony Blair, Bollywood actor Anil Kapoor and Hollywood stars Hugh Jackman and Jet Li, the filmmakers were asked to produce a three-minute movie which answers the brief, "Let me show you how my faith inspires me."

The films in the 'Faith Shorts' help demonstrate that faith means different things to different people. The competition gives young people the opportunity to challenge some of the stereotypes which surround religion.

Ishita Gupta's film Connecting Cultures, which highlights humanity as a unifying force in the world, has been shortlisted for the age 14-17 category.

Mudit Muraka has been shortlisted in the 'Face to Faith category' for his film The Mirror, which explores social pressures that today's youth face. Sujit's film Unsighted Faith is about the nurturing relationship between teacher and student and has been shortlisted in the 'Face to Faith category' of the competition.

Over 100 entries were received from countries across the globe including Philippines, Israel, Mexico and Nepal of which only 15 films were shortlisted.

Blair, founder and patron of the Tony Blair Faith Foundation, said, "Now in its third year, this global short film competition provides young people with a creative and innovative opportunity to showcase their personal views about faith, their ideals and the world around them."

'Faith Shorts' is designed to be as accessible as possible. Those without access to film making equipment were able to apply to win a portable video camera to make their film. The competition is open to those of all faiths and none, aged between 14 and 27 years old. The films should of maximum three-minute length.

The judges look for originality, creativity, a clear story and a viewpoint that brings home the reality of the story they tell about faith.

The prizes include an all-expenses paid trip to London to the Faith Shorts red carpet VIP Awards Ceremony at 195 Piccadilly, the home of BAFTA. Besides there will also be an opportunity to shoot and edit a short film with a professional film crew (for the 18 – 27 year old category).