Executive Summary
Over the past five years, from 2020 to 2024, Sikhlens: Sikh Arts & Film Festival has established itself as a cornerstone of cultural and artistic expression in Chandigarh, India. Hosted annually at the prestigious Tagore Theatre, the festival has witnessed significant growth in budget, participation, and impact. With a consistent annual increase in interest of participants and visitors with a growth rate of 15-20%, the festival has expanded its film screenings, exhibitions, performing art with national and international representation and collaborations, fostering a vibrant community of artists, filmmakers, and audiences. The collaboration between Sikhlens and Pinaka Mediaworks for India has been pivotal in executing seamless operations for the Film festival held every year in February, securing infrastructure, logistics, audience and network in Indian ecosystem, government support, and enhancing media relations. Despite facing annual challenges related to venue limitations, socio-political developments in North India, budget and dependant logistical constraints, Sikhlens in India has achieved remarkable milestones, including production, government, administration, and diplomatic support, diverse audience engagement, and extensive media coverage.
This report delves into the comprehensive analysis of Sikhlens’ journey, highlighting growth, programming evolution, operational efforts, partnerships, challenges, achievements, and future prospects.
Overview of Sikhlens: Sikh Arts & Film Festival in Chandigarh
Sikhlens: Sikh Arts & Film Festival was inaugurated in February 2020 with the vision of celebrating Sikh heritage through the mediums of arts and cinema. Held annually in Chandigarh, the festival serves as a platform for filmmakers, artists, and audiences to converge, exchange ideas, and showcase diverse narratives that reflect the Sikh experience and broader cultural themes. The festival not only highlights cinematic excellence and efforts but also integrates various forms of artistic expressions, including literature, performing arts, and visual arts, thereby enriching the cultural tapestry of the region.
Objectives and Mission
- Promote Sikh Culture and Heritage through varied form of art and films.
- Provide a platform for emerging and established filmmakers to present their work in the related domain and themes.
- Foster cultural exchange, national and international collaboration.
- Enhance the visibility of Sikh narratives in the global arts and film landscape.
- Encourage diversity and inclusion within the arts community.
- Encourage new generation storytellers and investors to come forward in the spectrum.
The goal of Sikhlens: Sikh Arts & Film Festival (India Chapter) is to create an inclusive and dynamic environment where art and cinema intersect, foster creativity, establish dialogue, and mutual understanding among diverse audiences.
- Name of the Festival: Sikhlens Sikh Arts & film Festival (India Chapter) [Followed by year]
- Festival founder & Executive Producer for Sikhlens Productions: Bicky Singh
- Co-Founder for Sikhlens: Gurpreet K Singh
- Festival Director For Sikhlens in भारत India: Ojaswwee Sharma
- Festival Host Organization in भारत India: Pinaka Mediaworks LLP
- Production Companies for Festival Management in भारत India: Pinaka Mediaworks LLP and Rolling Frames Entertainment
Annual Overview (2020-2024)
Festival Execution Overview
Sikhlens in Chandigarh is meticulously organized, with each festival day featuring a blend of film screenings, exhibitions, performances, and interactive sessions. The festival ensures a seamless experience through efficient logistics, robust security measures, and comprehensive attendee management.
THE HISTORY OF FESTIVAL IN INDIA
Sequence of Festival Dates (2020-2024)
| Year | Date of Press Conference | Date of Film Festival |
|---|---|---|
| 2020 | 20th February (Thursday) | 21st February (Friday) |
| 2021 | 20th February (Saturday) | 21st February (Sunday) |
| 2022 | 18th February (Thursday) | 20th February (Saturday) |
| 2023 | 23rd February (Thursday) | 25th February (Saturday) |
| 2024 | 15th February (Thursday) | 24th February (Saturday) |
Proposed dates for 2025
| Year | Date of Press Conference | Date of Film Festival |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | 28th January 2025 | 22nd February 2025 |
Film Screenings (2020-2024)
The festival has consistently increased the number of films screened, reflecting its growing reputation and the expanding interest of filmmakers.
Each year, Sikhlens has welcomed films from an increasing number of countries, fostering international collaboration and cultural exchange.
In a span of 5 years, 101 films have been showcased.
| Sno | Year | No. of Films | Countries | Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 2020 | 17 | 6 | India (5), USA (4), UK (3), Australia (3), Scotland (1), Italy (1) |
| 2 | 2021 | 24 | 8 | India (4), USA (6), Singapore (1), Pakistan (1), France (4), Italy (1), Australia (3) & England (4) |
| 3 | 2022 | 24 | 11 | India (6), USA (3), United Kingdom (5), Pakistan (1), Singapore (1), France (1) Malaysia (1), Thailand (2), Canada (2), Australia (1) and Nepal (1) |
| 4 | 2023 | 19 | 8 | India (8), Canada(2), United States (2), United Kingdom (3), Kenya (1), Pakistan (2), Malawi (1), Singapore (1) |
| 5 | 2024 | 17 | 5 | India(6), United States(5), United Kingdom(4), Pakistan(2), Peru(1) |
| 101 Films in Total | 16 Unique Countries |
| Sno | Year | Performances | Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 2020 | 4 | 2 – Poetry Performances 1 – Stand-up Comedy Performance 1 – Beat-boxing Performance |
| 2 | 2021 | 0 | Number of films increased, Honors were introduced.Running Keynotes during the day.Display based film showcased introduced in the festival format. |
| 3 | 2022 | 6 | 2 – Poetry Performance 1 – Gatka Performance by Shaheed Baba Deep Singh Ji Gatka Akhara.1 – Bodybuilders and Fitness Enthusiasts with a message to stay away from drugs. 1 – Singing Performance Veteran Punjabi singer Dolly Guleria. 1 – Closing Musical concert by Visually Impaired Performers |
| 4 | 2023 | 5 | A complete day dedicated to literary and cultural symposiums featuring 25 speakers 10 talks 1 – Keynote by High Commission of Canada 1 – Keynote by British Deputy high Commissioner 1 – Keynote by Karen Dosanjh 1 – Gatka Performance |
| 5 | 2024 | 7 | 1- Musical Performance – Gurmat Sangeet 1 – Theatre performance – Play Jitt De Nishaan 1- Zafarnama Recital 1 – Bhangra Performance 1 – Giddha Performance 1 – Gatka Performance 1 – Closing Performance with Malwai Gidha |
The Festival has integrated exhibitions to complement the screenings, offering attendees, visitors, and delegates a holistic cultural experience. This includes ample engagement during non-film screening hours, providing areas to network, photograph, and present artistic formats that are not limited to film screenings. This platform has been enriched by numerous historic and cultural exhibitors, including authors and various artists.
| Sno | Year | Exhibitions | Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 2020 | 4 | Exhibition of Photography on Gurudwaras of Punjab by Vinod Chauhan, Kites by Dr. Devinderpal Singh Sehgal, Miniature Art and Almond Art by Aman Singh Gulati, Calligraphy by Hardeep Singh. |
| 2 | 2021 | 4 | 300 + Art Display Exhibition, Book Launches – Kavita samaraoh by Dr. Parampreet Singh Ghuman, Exhibition of Kites, Miniature Art and 100 + Photographs on Gurudwaras of Punjab |
| 3 | 2022 | 6 | 1. Sikhlens Calendar of 2022 – The fort of Maharaja Ranjit Singh in Lahore 2. Display of Largest Coin Collection and Artifacts of history and culture by Parminder Singh. 3. Book launch “Against All Odds” – Longewala Hero Brig Kuldip Singh Chandpuri’s official biography by Hardeep Chandpuri & Gurjot Kaler.4. Exhibition by Ravleen Kaur, Dr. Kamal Sandhu, Param Kalra with iTappit Solutions, and an exhibition of Books |
| 4 | 2023 | 6 | 1. Sikhlens Calendar 2023 on display (Canada) 2. Exhibition of Cultural, Heritage, Historic, and Religious Artifacts by eminent exhibitors of India Narinderpal Singh.3. Book Launch of Sikhlens Publications “Jewels from Sikh Wisdom”4. Trailer launch of Sikhlens Publications Book – “The Legend of 1972 – Like Hockey & Beyond” 5. Exhibition of Miniature Art, Kites, Paintings, Books, artifacts of cultural, religious and historic heritage by eminent exhibitors in India. |
| 5 | 2024 | 7 | 1. Sikhlens Calendar 2024 on display 2. Exhibition of Cultural, Heritage, Historic, and Religious Artifacts by eminent exhibitors of India. 3. Display of Philately, Paintings, Books, and Creative Collections |
PLANNING AND EXECUTION SUMMARY
Organizing Sikhlens requires extensive investment in effort, time and resources across various stages:
| Sno | Activity | Details | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Date Announcement | Announced 90 days prior, during California festival | Annually |
| 2 | Poster Placement | One month before festival | Yearly |
| 3 | Digital Outreach | Continuous through social media and Whats App | 3 months |
| 4 | Press festivals | Two weeks before festival (2020-2023), 10 days (2024) | Annually |
| 5 | Publicity Material Production | Local production of all promotional materials | One month prior |
| 6 | Logistics and Security | Venue setup, manpower, security planning and Festival Execution | Festival week |
| 7 | Festival Planning | Sign-ups, planning, meetings, logistics design, advance payments | 3 months |
| 8 | Film and Program Scheduling | Selection of Film, Designing of Sub-festivals and Festival Day and Press Event Programming | Year Round Selection Process, Scheduling 2 months before the festival |
Impact and Achievements
| Achievement | Details |
|---|---|
| LONGEST RUNNING | SIKHLENS IS THE LONGEST RUNNING FESTIVAL OF SUCH KIND HELD IN INDIA THAT HAS BEEN RUNNING CONTINUOSLY FOR 5 YEARS |
| Government Support | 4 out of 5 years from Chandigarh Administration |
| Diplomatic Support & Sponsorship | With the High Commission of Canada in India |
| Diplomatic Participation | With the British High Commission |
| Visitor Growth | Striking annual increase in attendees Approx 1000 in 2020 to more than 3000 in 2024 |
| Awareness | Among filmmakers, youth, artists, cinema enthusiasts, present and former Chairman of of Minority Commission of India, Leader of various domains, and educational institutions |
| Media Coverage | Featured in 50+ media outlets across languages in print, digital and electronic |
| Diversity Promotion | Inclusive audience and programming |
| Notable Participants | Record holders, philanthropists, diverse professionals |
| Arts and Heritage | Extensive showcasing of various art forms |
Government and Diplomatic Support
Sikhlens has garnered consistent support from the Chandigarh Administration and the Department of Cultural Affairs, securing the Tagore Theatre for four out of five years. In 2023, additional diplomatic support was received from the Government of Canada and the British High Commissioner in Chandigarh, enhancing the festival’s international credibility.
Visitor Growth and Diversity
The festival has experienced a 20% annual growth in visitor numbers, attracting attendees from across India and internationally, including countries like the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Singapore, and various African nations. This growth underscores Sikhlens’ increasing appeal and its ability to draw a diverse audience.
Media Coverage and Publicity
Sikhlens has achieved extensive media coverage, being featured in over 40 newspapers, journals, online magazines, portals, web channels, and television channels. This multi-language coverage (English, Hindi, Punjabi) has significantly boosted the festival’s visibility and reach.
Promotion of Diversity and Inclusion
The festival has been a strong advocate for diversity, promoting inclusion across various dimensions such as religion, gender, and disability. This commitment is reflected in the diverse programming and the inclusive nature of the audience.
Notable Guests and Participants
Sikhlens has welcomed a myriad of notable guests, including Guinness and Limca World Book Record holders, filmmakers, writers, authors, painters, musicians, aspiring filmmakers and journalists varied forms of performing artists, philanthropists, youth, Non-Government and Non-Profit Organizations, historians, military personnel, and professionals from diverse backgrounds. These distinguished participants have enriched the festival’s discourse and appeal.
Contributions to Arts and Heritage
The festival has made significant contributions to the promotion of literature, heritage, performing arts, calligraphy, miniature art, and other artistic disciplines. Performances by folk artists, singers, bhangra, gidha, rabaab and divine music and Gatka performers have been major attractions, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the Sikh community and beyond.
VENUE CONSIDERATIONS
Venue from 2020-2024: Tagore Theatre, Chandigarh
Tagore Theatre is the preferred venue for Sikhlens, renowned for its state-of-the-art facilities in the region and strategic location within Chandigarh. Managed by the Department of Cultural Affairs, Chandigarh Administration, it offers a conducive environment for large-scale festivals.
Merits of the venue:
- Seating Capacity: 800
- Maximum Gathering: 2,000
- Amenities: Large stage size, adequate seating, free parking, accessibility on stage and back stage, access to public transport, and proximity to hotels for visiting guests.
FESTIVAL AUDIENCE ASSESSMENT BY PINAKA MEDIAWORKS
Visitor Management
The festival anticipates a daily turnout ranging from 1,000 to 4,000 visitors. This includes attendees staying for the entire day or visiting during specific sessions, ensuring a dynamic and vibrant atmosphere throughout the festival.
Visitor Demographics
Sikhlens in Chandigarh, India attracts a diverse audience encompassing various age groups, including youth, elderly, students, academicians, emerging makers, and young apprentices from surrounding media schools and high schools. The festival’s inclusive programming and approach appeals to a wide spectrum of attendees, fostering community engagement and cultural appreciation.
Audience Visit Calculations
Visitor numbers are calculated on-site registrations. Pinaka Mediaworks employs data analytic to monitor attendance patterns and optimize visitor management strategies for future editions of the festival.
FUTURE SCOPE AND GROWTH
Looking ahead, Sikhlens aims to expand the festival’s duration, potentially extending it from a single day to multiple days. This expansion would allow for a greater number of film screenings, exhibitions, and interactive sessions, enhancing the overall attendee experience. New segments such as workshops, interactive sessions, and masterclasses will be introduced, providing attendees with opportunities for hands-on learning and engagement. These additions will enrich the festival’s programming and attract a wider audience.
| Opportunity | Description |
|---|---|
| Extended Festival Duration | Expanding from one day to multiple days(Budget dependent) |
| International Collaborations for India | Partnering with global institutions and investment firms |
| New Segments | Introducing workshops, interactive sessions |
| Enhanced Digital Presence | Strengthening online presence and awareness (Budget dependant) |
CONCLUSION
The five-year journey of Sikhlens: Sikh Arts & Film Festival in Chandigarh has been marked by significant growth, robust partnerships, and Impactful contributions to the arts and cultural landscape. From its inception in 2020, the festival has successfully navigated challenges, expanded its programming, and fostered a diverse and engaged community. The consistent financial growth, coupled with strategic planning and execution, has solidified Sikhlens’ position as a premier cultural festival that not only is creating awareness, but is also building a stronger community, and engagement for year-round programming.
Moving forward, Sikhlens is poised to continue its trajectory of excellence, embracing new opportunities for expansion, collaboration, and innovation. The festival’s commitment to diversity, inclusion, and cultural celebration remains unwavering, ensuring its continued relevance and success in the years to come.
Detailed Annual Reports Links
For a comprehensive breakdown and detailed photographs of each year’s festival, please refer to the following links: