Remembering Aruna Vasudev: A beacon of Asian cinema
Aruna Vasudev, a pioneering force in the world of Asian cinema, passed away on Thursday in New Delhi, India, at the age of 88. Her legacy is one of passion, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to bringing Asian films to the global stage.
A visionary’s journey
In 1988, Vasudev launched Cinemaya, the first pan-Asian film quarterly. This publication quickly became an essential resource for anyone interested in Asian films and filmmakers. For two decades, Cinemaya provided in-depth analysis, interviews, and reviews, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of Asian cinema.
Three years later, in 1991, Vasudev founded the Network for the Promotion of Asian Cinema (NETPAC). This organization played a crucial role in promoting Asian films internationally. NETPAC introduced awards for Asian films at various international festivals and organized the Cinefan festival in New Delhi, further cementing Vasudev’s influence in the film industry.
A global influence
Vasudev’s impact was not confined to India or Asia. She served on juries at numerous prestigious international film festivals, including Cannes, Locarno, and Karlovy Vary. Her expertise and insights were highly valued, and she was instrumental in bringing Asian cinema to a broader audience.
Her contributions to the field were recognized with several honors. In 2004, she was appointed Cavaliere della Stella della Solidarietà Italiana, and in 2019, she was honored with France’s Chevalier des Arts et des Lettres. These accolades reflect her significant role in promoting cultural exchange through cinema.
A literary legacy
Vasudev was also a prolific author, penning several books on Asian cinema. Her works, such as The New Indian Cinema and Being & Becoming: The Cinemas of Asia, are considered essential reading for anyone interested in the subject. These books offer a comprehensive look at the evolution of Asian cinema and its impact on the global film industry.
A lasting impact
Supriya Suri’s documentary, Aruna Vasudev: Mother of Asian Cinema, delves into Vasudev’s remarkable journey. The film highlights her contributions to the world of cinema and her enduring passion for films from across Asia. This documentary is a testament to her influence and the respect she garnered from her peers.
“We are all orphans of our ‘Mother of Asian Cinema,’ as we all affectionately called her,” said Martine and Jean-Marc Thérouanne, directors and co-founders of the Festival International des Cinémas d’Asie de Vesoul.
Tributes from the film community
The news of Vasudev’s passing has elicited heartfelt tributes from the film community. Actor Shabani Azmi posted on Instagram, “She was the pioneer for making Asian films a genre to be talked about as a separate identity of its own. There are many laurels to her credit, but I will always remember her for her warmth and radiant smile. Her observations were always insightful, and I enjoyed being with her a lot. My condolences to her family.”
Filmmaker Shekhar Kapur responded to Azmi’s post, saying, “That is so sad. Aruna was an icon indeed… so passionate about cinema… so passionate about the place of Indian cinema in the rest of the world. She will be missed. RIP.”
A personal reflection
As a cinema enthusiast, reflecting on Aruna Vasudev’s contributions is both inspiring and humbling. Her work has not only elevated Asian cinema but has also paved the way for future generations of filmmakers and critics. Her passion for cinema was evident in everything she did, and her legacy will continue to inspire and influence the world of film for years to come.
For those interested in exploring her work further, I highly recommend watching the documentary Aruna Vasudev: Mother of Asian Cinema. It provides a comprehensive look at her life and achievements, offering valuable insights into her enduring impact on the film industry.
In remembering Aruna Vasudev, we celebrate a life dedicated to the art of cinema and the promotion of cultural understanding through film. Her legacy will continue to shine brightly, inspiring future generations to appreciate and promote the rich tapestry of Asian cinema.
For more information on the documentary, visit Aruna Vasudev: Mother of Asian Cinema.