Rathinam Group of Institutions, in collaboration with the NilgirisNext Foundation for Art and Culture, is hosting a Film Festival under the title ATOM, on 30th and 31st July 2025 at the Rathinam Arts and Science College Auditorium.
With the central theme of “Ecology, Culture, and Society,” the festival aims to spotlight environmental and socio-cultural narratives through the compelling medium of cinema.
On the first day, Saminathan, Minister for Tamil Development, Information and Publicity, Government of Tamil Nadu, served as the Chief Guest.
Madan Sendhil, Chairman and Secretary of Rathinam Group of Institutions; Shima Sendhil, Director; Manickam, CEO; Nagaraj, Chief Business Officer; and Guna Sekaran, Campus Head, Rathinam Kovilpalayam, were present.
In his keynote address, Chief Guest Minister Saminathan lauded the initiative and emphasised the transformative role of films in shaping public understanding and environmental ethics.
Reflecting on the visionary leadership of the Honourable Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, M. K. Stalin, he stated: “Our Chief Minister is building a Tamil Nadu that thrives on ecological balance, cultural depth, and inclusive development. The government is actively supporting initiatives that blend tradition with modern progress.
The ATOM Film Festival is a timely expression of that vision, showcasing how cinema can provoke thought and inspire collective action.”
Madan Sendhil, in his address, shared the institution’s broader vision for nurturing creative talent through the establishment of a dedicated Film Incubation Centre at Rathinam, designed to mentor, support, and launch aspiring filmmakers and storytellers.
“Cinema is a tool of transformation,” Dr. Sendhil remarked. “Through this Film Incubation Centre, Rathinam will continuously support filmmakers who are committed to addressing real-world challenges through their craft.
There will always be encouragement and infrastructure from Rathinam for those who wish to use cinema as a vehicle for change.”
Creative and thematic direction was provided by Ravi Senthilkumar, Director of Programmes, Research, and International Alliances, Nilgiris Next Foundation; Arun Vaddi, Festival Curator, and Saravanan, ecologist and Founder of the Pitchandikulam Forest, Puducherry.
The first day featured curated film screenings, thought-provoking keynote addresses, and interactive sessions that drew active participation from students, scholars, artists, and members of the public.
