by BIS Correspondent
MUMBAI, JAN 31, 2017: The Don Bosco Youth Film Festival of India in collaboration with St Andrew's College, Bandra was inaugurated by Father Godfrey D'Souza sdb, 
Provincial of Salesian Province of Mumbai, on January 27.
Organised by Boscom South Asia the two- day festival witnessed the screening of 24 short films by reputable filmmakers under the theme 'Youth and Nation Building'. It was a challenge to take the film festival to different centres; it is now being screened at over 100 venues across India.
Saudamini Bhagwat, professor at St Andrew's College started the inaugural function by introducing the speakers. Dr Marie Fernandes, principal of St. Andrew's College said, "These short films are a medium of expression and it should encourage each one of us to view it and change our lives and to build our nation."
Father Magi Murzello, Rector of St Andrew's College and principal of St. Andrew's School, expressed his joy that the college was playing host to the film festival. "It ignites the minds of youngsters through visual communication and collaboration is good for networking to help youngsters achieve their goals," he said.
Father D'Souza while addressing the college staff enumerated the theme of the festival, 'Youth and Nation Building' and encouraged the students to be creative and harness the power of youth towards nation building.
The Don Bosco Film Festival awards were announced by Father Fernandes. The first place was awarded to the short film 'Saavat' directed by Jyoti Toradmal, second spot to 'Paywat' directed by Mithunchandra Choudhari and 'Backbone' directed by Karunakaran C secured the third prize.
There were many category awards and special awards too, which will be given by the Rector Major of the Salesian congregation, Father Ángel Fernández Artime at Chennai, in March.