FTII chairman should understand cinema: Om Puri

The students of Film and Television Institute of India (FTII) are on a strike since Friday (June 12), as they are against the government’s decision to appoint Gajendra Chauhan as the chairman of the institute.

The students of Film and Television Institute of India (FTII) are on a strike since Friday (June 12), as they are against the government’s decision to appoint Gajendra Chauhan as the chairman of the institute. Now, Bollywood actor and FTII alumni, Om Puri has come out in support of them. Chauhan shot to limelight with the role of Yudhisthira in the TV series of Mahabharata aired in Doordarshan in the early ’90s. He is also a member of the BJP for the last 20 years.

FTII students believe that someone, who has no significant contribution to Indian cinema, should not be appointed to the post. Puri agrees with their stand, and says, “I think it’s a legitimate demand (by the students). Whoever is appointed [as the chairman] should have a fair understanding of cinema. If someone has no connection with the film industry, how can he contribute to the institute’s betterment?

“It is my humble request to the government to appoint someone who understands the problems faced by students, and has knowledge of cinema, and is credible enough. He should be able to make proper plans for a better future of the students,” he adds.

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