Today marks the inauguration of “Art for People,” a comprehensive two-week film-making workshop aimed at equipping Bhutan’s next generation of storytellers with vital technical skills and a creative platform to showcase their work. Hosted in the capital by Golan Pictures with backing from BICMA’s Economic Stimulus Programme, the initiative brings together 35 aspiring filmmakers and seven expert trainers hailing from both Bhutan and India.
Over the course of the program, participants will delve into all facets of film production—from scriptwriting and direction to cinematography, sound design, editing, and production design. Hands-on sessions and collaborative projects are designed to mirror real-world industry demands, offering attendees an immersive environment in which to hone their craft.
Despite an annual output of about 20 films, Bhutan’s film industry has long grappled with a shortage of modern technical training, a dearth of skilled professionals, and underdeveloped marketing and distribution networks. These constraints have often stifled the sector’s growth and its ability to reach wider audiences.
“We live in an age where art transcends mere aesthetics,” said Chandra Kumar Rai, the workshop’s organiser. “Art prompts individual reflection, fosters collective awareness, and can even drive social change. ‘Art for People’ embodies this philosophy by making creative education accessible to those who will shape our cultural narrative tomorrow.”
Rangoli Agarwal, one of the lead trainers, emphasized the country’s rich heritage: “Bhutan is steeped in folklore and legend. This workshop is about empowering local voices to retell those timeless stories in their own words, with confidence and technical finesse.”
Participants are already reporting palpable excitement. Sonam Choki, a theatre performer, believes the workshop will elevate her stagecraft and broaden the public’s engagement with performing arts. “I’ve always sought ways to deepen my skills,” she said. “This training is a springboard for raising awareness of our art form among a larger audience.”
For many novices, the program represents a rare chance to break into the industry. “I’ve wanted to tell stories for years but never had a formal avenue to learn,” explained participant Pema Dorji. “Now, I’m interacting with seasoned professionals who can guide me in polishing my storytelling.”
Upon completion, attendees will present their final short films at a national showcase, where they will receive certificates recognizing their achievements. Organisers hope that this debut cohort will emerge as the vanguard of a revitalized Bhutanese film community—one poised to engage both local and international viewers.
The “Art for People” workshop not only fills a critical training gap but also signals a renewed investment in Bhutan’s cultural industries, setting the stage for a vibrant, self-sustaining film sector in the years to come.
