Punjab varsity steps into moviemaking, produces Bengali film

Kolkata: A technical varsity of Punjab, known for its distance education programme, has forayed into filmmaking and co-produced Bengali film ‘Darling’. Punjab Technical University (PTU) will be co-producing the movie under its new production house Manya Films to promote filmmaking, mass communication-journalism, animation and multimedia courses, and also to provide practical exposure to students. "We believe entertainment is one of the biggest industries which provides huge employment opportunities. We are hopeful this new venture will give opportunities to young students who lack practical exposure after they complete their courses," PTU director (Operations) Ajesh Gugnani told reporters at the music launch of "Darling". Directed by Raaj Mukherjee, the film, which promises to be a family entertainer with elements of romance, drama, action and humour, has been shot in Goa, the Rann of Kutch and north Bengal. The film is releasing March 23. Established in January 1997, the university has over 300 affiliated colleges offering more than 50 professional courses in the technical, management, and pharmaceutical education streams. IANS