Bala Rajasekharuni joins AISFM as Dean

Hollywood writer/director Bala Rajasekharuni has joined Annapurna International School of Film and Media (AISFM) as its new Dean of Academics.Annapurna International School of Film and Media ( AISFM ) has appointed Hollywood expertise as its new Dean. Mr. Bala Rajasekharuni, a renowned writer/director with a vast experience in the film industry, has joined AISFM as the new Dean of Academics earlier this month. With an MFA in Screenwriting from University of California-Riverside, an MA in Theater & Cinema from University of Wisconsin-Madison & an MA in Theater Arts from Hyderabad Central University, Mr. Bala, taught in Film & Theater Departments, conducted workshops in various educational settings such as special schools & correctional facilities, for the past 20 years, in the United States.

Bala divides his time between USA & India, undertaking production endeavors and teaching. Sharing his thoughts on taking on the role of Dean of Academics at AISFM, Bala said, “I believe Film and Media education is at its best when a school can create a dynamic synergy between academic rigor and hands-on industry experience for their students. Today, Western & Eastern worlds are actively sharing knowledge, expertise and innovation in all fields including film & media. For instance, until recently Hollywood used to hire Indian talent only in the areas of post-production like animation & VFX. Now, they’ve opened doors in many other areas like acting, directing, screenwriting, production, studio management etc.”

He further added, “I believe AISFM has all the qualities & infrastructure to prepare its students for infinite career opportunities in the global arena. I’m extremely hopeful that AISFM will emerge to be one of the top film schools in the world, in the near future. On a personal note, growing up watching the timeless classics of ANR, it’s a great honor to me to become a part of the esteemed AISFM team, founded by the legendary Dr. Akkineni Nageswara Rao.”

Bala has written/produced/directed award winning English language films, held positions such as Casting Director, Script Consultant, Actor trainer, Executive Producer & Co-producer. Bala mentors foreign actors, writers, directors & producers who want to start their careers in Hollywood. Bala founded 160-H Productions-Hollywood in 2001. 160-H has handled productions of budgets ranging from $1M to $15 M. Currently 160-H is developing a slate of films to collaborate with Hollywood studios.