Anand Bakshi was a great poet and philosopher for the common man”, stated three master lyricists during the online event organised by WWI, paying tribute to Anand Bakshi on his 90th birth anniversary

Mumbai, July 27^th, 2020: Whistling Woods International (WWI) organised an enlightening session commemorating the 90^th birth anniversary of the legendary lyricist, late Mr. Anand Bakshi. The exciting event witnessed Mr. Subhash Ghai, Founder & Chairman, WWI moderate a panel comprising of three of the Hindi film industry’s master lyricists – Mr. Irshad Kamil, Mr. Amitabh Bhattacharya, and Mr. Kumaar – as they paid tribute to the legacy of the much-loved icon, late Mr. Anand Bakshi, while sharing their favourite songs from his body of work and analysing the deeper meanings behind their lyrics. 

In the face of these trying times, Whistling Woods International (WWI) imparted a message of positivity by celebrating the life and achievements of  late Mr. Anand Bakshi – the renowned songwriter of Hindi cinema. Being hosted under WWI’s famous 5^th Veda cultural hub, the session was conducted online for the first time ever. The interaction was hosted by WWI in association with Mukta Arts Ltd., along with the support extended by Bollywood Hungama, Saregama & Tips.

Mr. Subhash Ghai took the opportunity to share about the strong bond he shared with late Mr. Anand Bakshi over the course of several decades, and highlighted the latter’s contributions to his films over the years. “July 21 is an important date for me. We shared a wonderful personal and professional relationship, forged over the course of 50 years and 14 films together. Indian cinema has been greatly shaped by his lyrics and plenty of actors owe their success to his words”, said Mr. Subhash Ghai.

As the discussion progressed, Mr. Irshad Kamil highlighted the philosophical approach late Mr. Anand Bakshi adopted towards his work. He further regarded the late icon’ humongous  contribution to Hindi cinema, referring to him as the ‘The Great Himalaya of the music industry’. He also praised his young-at-heart approach to music and conveying big ideas through simple expressions. Mr. Amitabh Bhattacharya recalled learning about late Mr. Anand Bakshi as a student and noted ‘Ram Kare Aisa Ho Jaye’ and ‘Chingari Koi Bhadke’ as being among his favourite songs. Mr. Kumaar shared how the late songwriter used to understand the characters and then compose the songs and praised the attribute by stating, “The philosophy that he brought in writing songs  for an ordinary  person, was extraordinary.” A surprise for the audience was the recitation of a heart-touching poem by Mr. Rakesh  Anand Bakshi, son of the late lyricist, who wrote the poem as his last piece of work before he passed away in 2002. 

Finally, Mr. Subhash Ghai shared a final word of wisdom with the new generation of film writers, director and  listeners, “If you understand poetry, your content and product will  have a longer life. Everyone must develop their sense of poetry to shape their life with peace and happiness, also enabling them to widen the horizon of their mindset .”   

On that note, Meghna Ghai Puri, President, WWI, thanked the panel for sharing their memories, and Bollywood Hungama, Saregama and Tips for their contributions to the event.

WHISTLING WOODS INTERNATIONAL ANNOUNCED THE DATE FOR ITS NEXT ROUND OF ONLINE ENTRANCE EXAMS FOR THE 2020 INTAKE

Mumbai, July 9^th, 2020: Whistling Woods International (WWI), Asia’s premier Film, Communication and Creative Arts institute, has announced the date for the fifth round of entrance examinations for its 2020 intake. The registration for the entrance exam for WWI’s full-time degree and diploma programmes will close on July 16, 2020, while the online exam procedures is scheduled for July 17, 2020.

The classes are slated to commence online from the month of August, 2020.

WWI offers degree and diploma programmes accredited by the Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS), Asia's oldest institute for professional social work education. The entire entrance examination process will be conducted online, keeping the safety of the applicants on priority, amidst the ongoing pandemic.

The schedule follows below:

Last Date to Apply

July 16, 2020

July 17, 2020

BSc/BA in Filmmaking | Advanced Diploma in Filmmaking | BA in Screenwriting | Diploma in Screenwriting | BA in Acting | Advanced Diploma in Acting | BA in Music Production & Composition | BBA Media & Communication | Post Graduate Diploma in Media & Entertainment | Post Graduate Programme in Event Management & Experiential Marketing | Integrated BSc/BA + Post Graduate Diploma in Animation | Integrated BSc/BA + Post Graduate Diploma in Game Design | Integrated BSc/BA + Post Graduate Diploma in Visual Communication Design | BA in Fashion Design

Rated as one of the most ‘Influential Institutes of India’ by Forbes India, the institute has over 2200+ alumni successfully working with various media organisations, film production companies, and fashion houses in India and around the world. Through an academic curriculum that combines theoretical knowledge with hands-on practical experience, state-of-the-art technology at the institute, and a globally recognised teaching staff, WWI produces globally qualified graduates in every field across the media and entertainment industries.

 Aspirants can visit www.whistlingwoods.net to fill the online admission forms to undertake the entrance examination.

WHISTLING WOODS INTERNATIONAL ANNOUNCED DATES FOR THE FOURTH ROUND OF ONLINE ENTRANCE EXAMS FOR 2020 INTAKE

Mumbai, June 12^th, 2020: Whistling Woods International (WWI), Asia’s premier Film, Communication and Creative Arts institute, has announced the dates for the third round of entrance examinations for its 2020 intake. The registration for the entrance exam for WWI’s full-time degree and diploma programmes will close by June , 25^th and 26^th, 2020, respectively.

The classes are slated to start from the month of August, 2020.

WWI offers degree and diploma programmes accredited by the Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS), Asia's oldest institute for professional social work education. The entire entrance examination process will be conducted online, keeping the safety of the applicants on priority, amidst the ongoing global health crisis.

The schedule follows below:

Last Date to Apply	June – 22nd, 2020
June 25, 2020	BSc/BA Filmmaking | Advanced Diploma in Filmmaking | BA Screenwriting | Diploma in Screenwriting | BA Acting | Advanced Diploma in Acting
June 26, 2020	BA Music Production & Composition | BBA Media & Communication | Post Graduate Diploma in Media & Entertainment | Post Graduate Programme in Event Management & Experiential Marketing | Integrated BSc/BA + Post Graduate Diploma in Animation | Integrated BSc/BA + Post Graduate Diploma in Game Design | Integrated BSc/BA + Post Graduate Diploma in Visual Communication Design | BA in Fashion Design
June 27, 2020	Reserve day for any spill overs or miss outs.

Rated as one of the most ‘Influential Institutes of India’ by Forbes India, the institute has over 2200+ alumni successfully working with various media organisations, film production companies, and fashion houses in India and around the world. Through an academic curriculum that combines theoretical knowledge with hands-on practical experience, state-of-the-art technology at the institute, and a globally recognised teaching staff, WWI produces globally qualified graduates in every field across the media and entertainment industries.

 Aspirants can visit www.whistlingwoods.net to fill the online admission forms to undertake the entrance examination.

WHISTLING WOODS INTERNATIONAL ANNOUNCED DATES FOR THE THIRD ROUND OF ONLINE ENTRANCE EXAMS FOR 2020 INTAKE

Mumbai, May 18^th, 2020: Whistling Woods International (WWI), Asia’s premier Film, Communication and Creative Arts institute, has announced the dates for the third round of entrance examinations for its 2020 intake. The registration for the entrance exam for WWI’s full-time degree and diploma programmes will close by May 22^nd, 23^rdand 26^th, 2020, respectively.

WWI offers degree and diploma programmes accredited by the Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS), Asia's oldest institute for professional social work education. The entire entrance examination process will be conducted online, keeping the safety of the applicants on priority, amidst the ongoing global health crisis. 

Following the registration, the online entrance examinations are scheduled to take place on May 25, 26 & 29, 2020. The schedule follows below:

Last Date to Apply	May 22nd, 2020
May 25, 2020	BSc/BA Filmmaking | Advanced Diploma in Filmmaking | BA Screenwriting | Diploma in Screenwriting
Last Date to Apply	May 23rd, 2020
May 26, 2020	BA Music Production & Composition | BA Acting | Advanced Diploma in Acting | BBA Media & Communication | Post Graduate Diploma in Media & Entertainment | Post Graduate Programme in Event Management & Experiential Marketing
Last Date to Apply	May 26th, 2020
May 29, 2020	Integrated BSc/BA + Post Graduate Diploma in Animation | Integrated BSc/BA + Post Graduate Diploma in Game Design | Integrated BSc/BA + Post Graduate Diploma in Visual Communication Design | BA in Fashion Design

Rated as one of the most ‘Influential Institutes of India’ by Forbes India, the institute has over 2200+ alumni successfully working with various media organisations, film production companies, and fashion houses in India and around the world. Through an academic curriculum that combines theoretical knowledge with hands-on practical experience, state-of-the-art technology at the institute, and a globally recognised teaching staff, WWI produces globally qualified graduates in every field across the media and entertainment industries.

 Aspirants can visit www.whistlingwoods.net to fill the online admission forms to undertake the entrance examination.

WWI ACTORS’ STUDIO PAYS TRIBUTE TO COVID WARRIORS THROUGH THE POWER OF POETRY

Mumbai, May 14^th, 2020: Whistling Woods International (WWI) has always stood as a beacon for India’s creative community, inspiring them to greater heights of talent and success. In the midst of the ongoing COVID-19 crisis, WWI has once again taken the lead by reminding the nation that we are far stronger together than we are alone. In order to highlight this message, and thank the countless COVID warriors keeping us safe, the WWI Actors’ Studio has released a powerful video – Nahi Akele Hum.

This stirring tribute features students of the WWI Actors’ Studio reciting the poem penned by Mr. Subhash Ghai, Founder and Chairman of WWI. Set to the backdrop of visuals of government officials, medical community, police and armed forces, and regular citizens all doing their part to battle this pandemic, it reminds us that we are not alone. Truly a message to inspire both the nation and the world.

YouTube Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xNLu3C_ID9k

About Whistling Woods International

Whistling Woods International (WWI) is Asia’s premier Film, Communication, and Creative Arts Institute. Founded by one of India’s leading filmmakers – Subhash Ghai, WWI is one of the largest and best media institutes in the country. ‘The Hollywood Reporter’ has rated Whistling Woods International as one of the Ten Best Film Schools in the world in 2014, 2013 & 2010. WWI offers courses that vary in duration from 1 year to 4 years catering to all major verticals of the Media & Entertainment industry, namely Acting, Animation, Cinematography, Direction, Editing, Game Design, Music, Producing, Production Design, Screenwriting, Sound, Visual Effects, Media Management.  

WWI SCHOOL OF MEDIA & COMMUNICATION PREPARES THE NEW GENERATION OF DIGITAL MARKETERS; HOSTED MR. AKSHAY GURNANI FOR AN EXCLUSIVE MASTERCLASS

Mumbai, February 19, 2020: Whistling Woods International (WWI) hosted Mr. Akshay Gurnani, Co-Founder and CEO of the digital marketing agency, Schbang for an exclusive masterclass for the students of WWI’s School of Media and Communication. Over the course of an insightful session at Asia’s premier film, communication and creative arts institute, Mr. Akshay Gurnani highlighted the state of India’s marketing sector and shared learnings from his career.

The session began with Mr. Akshay Gurnani elaborating on the various aspects that Schbang offers to its diverse clientele. Mr. Akshay Gurnani shared the story of how his organisation added various functionalities - integrated solution marketing, digital content, video production and photography, digital content creation and SEO, influencer relationship management and public relations, and media planning and buying with time.

Further elaborating on the importance of digital media, he shared that despite an economic slowdown, he has witnessed how spending on digital platforms has increased. This fact resonated with him highlighting the sector’s importance over the years.

The conversation subsequently shifted to the importance of content quality, and how integrated solutions help brands build loyalty and harness conversions. Following this, he highlighted the features of various social media platforms and the ways in which brands can use those unique features to market themselves. As an example, he cited TikTok and its immense popularity with a younger demographic. He stated, “Every platform has its plusses and minuses. Depending upon the lifecycle of the brand, they can pick and choose the medium, which best suits their messaging.”

Mr. Akshay Gurnani went on to share his thoughts on the role of organisational culture in running an effective business. His response lifted the spirits of the listeners, for as he stated, “An organisation’s culture plays a key role in keeping employees motivated. After all, a happy employee is a dedicated, motivated employee.” He then took the opportunity to showcase his company’s work. The enthralled students were treated to a series of videos featuring Jacqueline Fernandez produced for Raw Pressery, which highlighted the role short videos play in conveying the brand’s messaging. Other videos shown to the audience showcased Schbang’s work for brands like Xiaomi and Fevikwik. As words of advice, he highlighted the importance of crisp content with a quirky or an emotional twist to connect with the target group.

On that note, the session came to an end. Mr. Akshay Gurnani was presented with a token of appreciation for his invaluable knowledge, amidst a round of applause that filled the auditorium.

About Whistling Woods International

Whistling Woods International is India’s premier Film, Communication, and Media Arts Institute. Founded by one of India’s leading filmmakers – Subhash Ghai, Whistling Woods International (WWI) is one of Asia’s largest Media Arts institutes. ‘The Hollywood Reporter’ has rated Whistling Woods International as one of the Ten Best Film Schools in the world in 2014, 2013 & 2010. WWI offers courses that vary in duration from 1 year to 3 years catering to all major verticals of the Media & Entertainment industry, namely Acting, Animation, Cinematography, Direction, Editing, Music, Producing, Screenwriting, Sound, Visual Effects, Media Management, Fashion Design and Visual Communication Design. All the courses are accredited by the Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS).

“Great ideas can lead to effective solutions”, shared Ms. Ayshwarya Sharma with the students of Visual Communication Design at WWI

Mumbai, November 22^nd, 2019: Whistling Woods International (WWI) School of Design hosted a session with Ms. Ayshwarya Sharma, Brand Strategy Partner- Apollo 11, Leo Burnett, Mumbai for the Visual Communication Design (VCD) students. The interactive session witnessed a deep delve into the world of advertising with live examples and impromptu exercises that helped establish a considerable understanding of the domain. 

After a round of initial introductions, Ms. Ayshwarya Sharma started the session with the basics of advertising and explained the various nuances of the field. She took to explain the enthusiastic students the evolving world of advertising through innovative TVCs. 

Discussing a few interesting advertisings campaigns by IBM, Whisper, Pay Phone Bank and Volvo with the students, Ms. Ayshwara Sharma elaborated on how these ideas created impact. She explained how the effective communication solutions have struck a chord with the audience and contributed to the effectiveness of the campaign by addressing the problem at large. She even advised the students to think outside the box and conducted an activity to help them understand the concept better. 

While sharing tips with the captivated students, Ms. Ayshwarya Sharma suggested that to make effective communication, one must align their thoughts to observe the problem, gain insight on the concept, connect the idea with the brand, and finally execute the plan.  

As the event concluded, Ms. Ayshwarya Sharma was thanked for her valuable inputs amidst the applause of an appreciative audience.

About Whistling Woods International

Whistling Woods International (WWI) is Asia’s premier Film, Communication, and Creative Arts Institute. Founded by one of India’s leading filmmakers – Subhash Ghai, WWI is one of the largest and best media institutes in the country. ‘The Hollywood Reporter’ has rated Whistling Woods International as one of the Ten Best Film Schools in the world in 2014, 2013 & 2010. WWI offers courses that vary in duration from 1 year to 4 years catering to all major verticals of the Media & Entertainment industry, namely Acting, Animation, Cinematography, Direction, Editing, Game Design, Music, Producing, Production Design, Screenwriting, Sound, Visual Effects, Media Management.

ADVERTISING MAVERICK, MR. NITEEN BHAGWAT CONDUCTED AN ENGROSSING MASTERCLASS FOR THE STUDENTS OF SCHOOL OF MEDIA & COMMUNICATION AT WHISTLING WOODS INTERNATIONAL

Mumbai, November 15^th, 2019: Whistling Woods International's (WWI) School of Media and Communication (SMC) hosted an interactive session for its students with Mr. Niteen Bhagwat, Vice Chairman, FCB Interface, Mumbai. During the session, Mr. Niteen Bhagwat shared insights on social media platforms and how to optimise them to the fullest to garner insights on consumer mindset and conduct research-based activities.

The industry veteran with more than three decades of experience explained to the student’s usage of social media to conduct competition analysis across various sectors. Besides, Mr. Niteen Bhagwat, also, highlighted how social media can be used to gauge the reach of brands, celebrities and their effect on the audience at large.

During the session, Mr. Niteen Bhagwat elaborated on the domain of advertising. Through various campaign examples, he advised the students on how to ‘cut through the clutter’ while communicating with the target audience. He further described the importance of research in disseminating the message to the consumer and went on to explain the effectiveness of media modeling as well to the engrossed students.

 As the event concluded, Mr. Niteen Bhagwat was honored with a token of appreciation amidst the applause of an appreciative audience.

"Films today are the result of months of research and understanding of the environment", shared team of Sonchiriya at WWI Masterclass

Mumbai, September 13, 2019: Whistling Woods International (WWI), Asia’s premier Film, Communication and Creative Arts institute, hosted an interactive session for its students with the creative minds behind the well-appreciated film, ‘Sonchiriya’. During the masterclass, the students were presented upon with an opportunity to seek insights on various nuances and intricacies of filmmaking from the talented guests. 

The session moderated by Mr. Anjum Rajabali, Head of Screenwriting Department, WWI, witnessed the writer and director, Mr. Abhishek Chaubey and writer, Mr. Sudip Sharma share their insights and thoughts behind the conceptualisation and execution of the film. Mr. Abhishek Chaubey added, “The initial thought for the movie came from the need to do something different. The film that we see today is a product of months of research and understanding of the environment in which the movie is shot, which was in Chambal, Rajasthan.”

As the session progressed the creative duo discussed the finer aspects of filmmaking – elaborating on topics ranging from production to casting. They mutually agreed on how attention to minute details play an important role in showcasing the finished product. While further narrating about the script and its influence on the movie, Mr. Abhishek Chaubey added, “Sudip and I decided to make something which is simpler and leaner in terms of the story angle. Having done our research about bandits, we were extremely fascinated by their life. We spent almost three weeks at the location, researching and collecting first-hand data that could help build the movie.”

Answering to an eager student’s question on film marketing and its direct impact on the film success, Mr. Sudip Sharma responded by saying, “Our job is to write the film and create it, if we concentrate on marketing, the results will not turn out to be the same.”

Discussing the importance of casting to the enthusiastic audience, Mr. Abhishek Chaubey cited, “We wanted someone who can justify the role, someone who is a well-known face and equally successful at the box office. Sushant Singh Rajput was our first and only choice. He hails from Patna, has been exposed to the other parts of India and sports a desi personality. Nonetheless, it was still very tough for him - mentally and physically to execute the role. He gave a lot to the film.” 

As the event concluded, Mr. Anjum Rajabali honoured the guests with a token of appreciation amidst the applause of an appreciative audience.