The Mumbai knowledge tour expedition was like a dream for us and we really thank Inspiria Knowledge Campus for giving us this great opportunity. Mumbai for an industrial visit from 8th September to 14th September 2023 was an enlightening and unforgettable experience. Mumbai, often referred to as the financial and industrial hub of India, is also renowned for its modern art and culture. We had the privilege of exploring this vibrant city, and it proved to be a remarkable and educational journey.
Mumbai Knowledge Tour Day-wise Itinerary
Day 1 – Exploring Mumbai’s Cultural and Historical Gems
Gateway Of India and The Taj Hotel
Our exciting expedition kicked off at the renowned Gateway Of India, a place filled with fascinating stories from the past. We delved into its rich history, uncovering the layers that have shaped Mumbai’s cultural narrative over the years. The experience was heightened as we were granted the privilege of admiring the majestic Taj Hotel, adding a touch of luxury to our exploration.
Landmarks Tour
Our journey through Mumbai’s vibrant cultural heritage led us to some incredible landmarks. First on the list was the Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus, a historic railway station that’s not just about trains but also tells tales of Mumbai’s past. Next up was the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya, a museum with a name as grand as its collection. It’s like a treasure trove of artefacts, giving us a peek into India’s rich history.
Then, we explored the National Gallery Of Modern Art, a place where creativity knows no bounds. Walking through its halls, we were introduced to the works of artistic maestros like Salvador Dali, whose surrealism sparked our imagination. Nicholas Roerich’s pieces offered a glimpse into a world of vibrant colours and profound symbolism, while Nandlal Bose’s art showcased the beauty of Indian traditions.
From the architectural marvels of the Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus to the artistic treasures within the museums, each place unfolded a chapter of the incredible story that is Mumbai’s cultural heritage.
Day 2 – All Things Bollywood
Filmcity – Dadasaheb Phalke Chitranagari, Goregaon
The next day, we headed to the exciting world of Filmcity, the buzzing center of the Indian film industry. Inside its vast space, we went on a fascinating journey, exploring the actual sets where famous movies and TV shows were filmed.
As we peeked behind the scenes, we discovered the incredible work and attention to detail that goes into making movie magic. The sets, which played a role in blockbuster films like Gadar 2, Koi Mil Gaya, Baghban, Taarak Mehta Ka Oolta Chasma, Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai, Anupama, Naagin, Big Boss, and the timeless “Hera Pheri,” showcased the artistry of cinema production.
The experience was like walking through a real movie set, and we couldn’t help but be amazed by the skilful craftsmanship that brings these stories to life on the big screen.
Bollywood Theme Park
Our visit to the Bollywood Theme Park was a blast! We got to see amazing performances and learn a lot about the history of Bollywood. It wasn’t just entertainment – it was like stepping into the world behind the movies.
We did some cool stuff too! Ever wondered how movie sounds are made? We found out at the park. We tried making sounds like footsteps and doors creaking – it was like being in a real movie studio.
And guess what? We got to be actors for a moment! Standing in front of a green screen, we imagined different scenes and had a great time pretending to be in the movies. It showed us how movie magic happens.
But the best part was the music studio. We saw how songs for movies are made and even got to record our own songs. It was super fun and helped us understand how important music is in making movies special.
So, the Bollywood Theme Park wasn’t just about fun performances; it was like a movie school, teaching us cool things about making films. It made us appreciate all the hard work that goes into creating the movies we love.
Day 3 – Visiting Mumbai Art Galleries
Jehangir Art Gallery
A Showcase of Diversity Jehangir Art Gallery stands as a vibrant testament to Mumbai’s artistic diversity. During our visit, we were captivated by an exceptional photography exhibition featuring the works of Hemant Sawant.
His photographs were a visual feast, showcasing a mastery of techniques and framing designs that left an indelible mark on our artistic sensibilities. The gallery itself served as a melting pot of creativity, where various artistic expressions converged to create a rich tapestry of visual delight.
Nita Mukesh Ambani Cultural Centre
Our artistic journey reached new heights at the Nita Mukesh Ambani Cultural Centre, where the “Run As Slow As You Can” exhibition unfolded. This remarkable exhibition, crafted by the renowned artist Maurizio Cattelan and photographer Pierpaolo Ferrari, took us through four captivating levels.
Each level offered a unique perspective on the human subconscious mind. From navigating a maze of enormous photo montages to experiencing a dreamlike sky space and exploring a fully furnished, eccentric house, every step was a revelation.
The Theatre and VR room added an extra layer of immersion, making this exhibition a standout highlight of our gallery exploration.
National Gallery Of Modern Art
Immersing ourselves in the hallowed halls of the National Gallery Of Modern Art was a journey into the soul of India’s profound artistic heritage. Here, we not only witnessed but deeply absorbed the works of various artistic giants such as Salvador Dali, Nicholas Roerich, and Nandlal Bose. Dali’s surrealism, a kaleidoscope of imagination, left an enduring mark, sparking our creative minds and prompting contemplation.
The gallery, more than a mere showcase, one of the most noted gallery in the nation it unfolded as a profound exploration of India’s artistic evolution. It became a sacred space where the threads of tradition seamlessly intertwined with the avant-garde, creating a harmonious celebration of creativity.
Each stroke on the canvas, each sculpture meticulously placed, echoed the rich tapestry of India’s artistic legacy, resonating with a timeless beauty that transcends eras. The National Gallery Of Modern Art, therefore, stood not just as a repository of masterpieces but as a living testament to the artistic spirit that defines the heart of India.
Thrilling Finale: AM Summit 2023 and Ann Awards
The culmination of our journey took us to the Animation Summit, an event that proved to be the most thrilling and enlightening part of our trip. Powered by 88 Pictures and co-powered by Zebu Animation, with creative technology support from Autodesk, this summit provided a deep dive into the animation industry.
Insights and Innovation: The AM Summit Highlights
During the summit, we gained valuable insights into the inner workings of the animation industry. The focus was on the use of AI as a tool for characterization and texturing, dispelling any concerns about AI being a threat to designers.
Industry leaders, including Milind Shinde (CEO of 88 Pictures) and Neeraja Raj (Senior Film Director at Nexus Studio), delivered notable presentations that left a profound impact. Their words inspired us to prioritize quality over salary considerations and strive for continuous improvement in our portfolios.
Industry Solutions and Success Stories
Autodesk India took the stage to offer solutions for animation studios, while Zebu Animation, M2 Animation, and Green Gold Animation shared their success stories with Autodesk. Capt. Praveshchand Diwan from KARCO discussed the application of 3D animation in the learning space. A panel conversation addressed challenges and opportunities in broadcast TV and original IPs, and Nikhil Prasad discussed “Unreal Made Faster.”
A special session by Assemblage Entertainment’s founder and CEO, AK Madhavan, was titled “Cracking the Global Code: The ABCs of India’s Animation Journey.” Madhavan, widely known as “Madmax,” shared his experiences and learnings, emphasizing the importance of aspiring, building, and collaborating in the animation industry.
Ram Mohan Award and Ann Awards
The ceremony saw the presentation of the Ram Mohan Award, an accolade that last year honoured Dhimant Vyas and this year recognized the multi-talented artist and educator Prakash Moorthy for his significant contributions to animation, filmmaking, and production design. Moorthy expressed his honour and pride, acknowledging the association with the legendary pathmaker, Padmasree Rammohan.
Connecting with Industry Leaders
Our team had the honour of participating in enlightening discussions with key figures in the animation world. Notable personalities such as Anil Wanvari, Neeraja Raj, Prof. Nina Sabnani, Veerendra P., and Ashish Kulkarni graciously shared their perspectives. These insightful conversations delved into the present dynamics of the industry, shedding light on current trends and offering valuable glimpses into its future prospects.
Takeaways for the students from the Mumbai Knowledge Tour
The media students’ knowledge tour to Mumbai proved to be an enriching experience, offering them firsthand insight into the diverse facets of the media and entertainment industry. The tour included visits to a museum and a film studio, providing the students with valuable takeaways that significantly benefited their understanding and future endeavours.
Cultural Appreciation and Historical Context
The visit to the Gateway of India and Taj allowed students to delve into the cultural and historical roots of Indian History. Exhibits and artefacts showcased the evolution of media forms, providing a comprehensive overview of how media has played a pivotal role in shaping societies over time.
Industry Exposure and Networking
The film studio visit was a unique opportunity for students to witness the behind-the-scenes workings of a live production environment. Interacting with industry professionals, they gained insights into the technical aspects, production workflows, and the collaborative nature of the field. This exposure facilitated networking opportunities, allowing students to establish connections with professionals in the industry.
Practical Knowledge and Skill Development
Being physically present in a film studio environment gave students a practical understanding of the equipment, technology, and techniques employed in media production. This hands-on experience is invaluable for translating theoretical knowledge into practical skills, bridging the gap between academia and industry expectations.
Inspiration and Aspiration
Observing the creative process in a film studio can be a powerful source of inspiration. Witnessing professionals at work, students were able to envision their potential roles in the industry. This firsthand experience can be a catalyst for shaping career aspirations and goals.
Understanding Industry Challenges
The tour provided a realistic view of the challenges faced by the media and entertainment industry. From budget constraints to tight production schedules, students gained insights into the hurdles professionals encounter and learned to appreciate the resilience and problem-solving skills required in the field.
Multidisciplinary Collaboration
Media production involves collaboration across various disciplines. The tour emphasized the importance of interdisciplinary teamwork, showcasing how individuals with diverse skills and expertise come together to create a cohesive and engaging final product.
Application of Academic Concepts
The tour offered a practical application of concepts learned in the classroom. Students could connect theories studied in their media courses to real-world scenarios, reinforcing their academic knowledge and demonstrating the relevance of their education to the industry.
Things to consider while planning a knowledge tour to Mumbai
Keeping our recent Mumbai trip in mind with our college, where we actively contributed to the planning alongside our faculty, we’ve gathered some practical tips for organizing an educational tour. Here are a few important considerations to keep in mind when planning a trip to Mumbai for educational purposes
Define Educational Objectives
Before setting foot in Mumbai, clearly define the educational goals of the tour. Whether it’s cultural immersion, historical exploration, or scientific discovery, understanding the objectives will guide the itinerary and activities. For us since we are from bsc animation & multimedia background we had to choose our goals and spots accordingly.
Curate a Well-Structured Itinerary
Mumbai is a vast city with a myriad of attractions. Craft a well-structured itinerary that aligns with the educational goals. Include visits to historical landmarks like the Gateway of India, educational institutions, and cultural hubs such as museums and art galleries.
Safety and Security
Prioritize the safety and security of students throughout the tour. Research safe neighbourhoods, establish emergency procedures, and ensure the presence of responsible chaperones. It’s essential to have a comprehensive risk management plan in place.
Accommodation
When selecting accommodations for an educational tour to Mumbai, it’s advisable to opt for places that meet several crucial criteria. Firstly, aim for central locations, ensuring that the chosen lodgings are situated in areas that provide convenient access to key attractions and educational sites. This central positioning can significantly enhance the overall experience for the student group.
Moreover, considering the proximity to public transportation is vital. Opting for accommodations near public transportation hubs can streamline travel logistics, making it easier for the group to move between different locations. This not only saves time but also adds a layer of convenience, especially when navigating a bustling city like Mumbai.
Transportation
Plan transportation logistics meticulously. Whether opting for buses, trains, or a combination, consider the convenience and comfort of the students. Factor in traffic conditions and choose transportation modes that align with the itinerary.
Educational Partnerships
Collaborate with nearby educational institutions, museums, and subject matter experts when planning your educational tour. Connecting with local experts not only offers unique insights and perspectives but also enriches the overall educational experience for participants. Additionally, consider organizing guided tours and interactive sessions wherever feasible to enhance engagement and foster a deeper understanding of the subject matter.
Cultural Sensitivity
Make an effort to raise students’ awareness about the cultural diversity of Mumbai. Help them become acquainted with local customs, traditions, and etiquette prevalent in the city. This cultural sensitivity not only promotes respect for the local community but also cultivates a deeper understanding of the environment. By fostering this cultural awareness, you contribute to creating a more immersive learning experience, allowing students to connect with the city on a meaningful level and enriching their overall educational journey.
Budgeting and Fundraising
To make sure everything runs smoothly on your educational tour, it’s important to plan a realistic budget covering all the basics like where you’ll stay, how you’ll get around, meals, and entry fees. This helps avoid any unexpected money issues during the trip.
You can go a step further and think about ways to raise money to make the tour more affordable for everyone. You can ask local businesses management for support, organize events, or use online platforms for crowdfunding. This not only helps financially but also brings the group together, making the whole experience more enjoyable for everyone.
Documentation and Permissions
Ensure that all necessary travel documents, permissions, and medical records are in order. This includes consent forms from parents, emergency contact information, and any required permits for group activities.
Flexibility in Planning
While a well-structured itinerary is crucial, allow room for flexibility. Unexpected opportunities may arise, and adapting to spontaneous learning experiences can enhance the overall educational value of the tour.
Conclusion
In conclusion, our industrial visit to Mumbai was both exhilarating and enlightening, offering a comprehensive understanding of Animation and VFX industries. The dynamic atmosphere of Mumbai added to the enjoyment, making it an unforgettable experience.
As we reflect on this truly unforgettable experience, we express our gratitude for the opportunities afforded to us. The anticipation for more such enriching journeys in the future resonates among us, as we look forward to further expanding our horizons and gaining invaluable insights into the ever-evolving world of Animation and VFX.
– by Shreya Goyal and Sayan Chatterjee.
