Beyond Words: CMS, JAIN (Deemed-to-be University), Transforms Emotional Intelligence into a Cinematic Learning Experience in Association with Affectionate Hands

Demonstrating how education can extend beyond conventional learning, the Centre for Management Studies (CMS), JAIN (Deemed-to-be University), Lalbagh Campus, Bengaluru, hosted Beyond Words, a short film-making competition organised as part of the III Semester Emotional Intelligence course. Conceptualised and spearheaded by Ms. Parimala S., Assistant Professor, Department of General Studies, the initiative brought together cinema, creativity and emotional awareness to promote experiential learning and personal growth among students.

Inspired by the theme “One Emotion, One Story,” the competition challenged students to communicate emotions through facial expressions, body language, silence and visual storytelling. Exploring themes such as insecurity, empathy and inner conflict, the films encouraged students to reflect on human behaviour and relationships while strengthening their emotional awareness, teamwork, communication and creative thinking.

The initiative received the support of Dr. Chenraj Roychand, Chancellor of JAIN (Deemed-to-be University); Dr. Krishna Koopa, Dean; and Ms. Sunitha, Head of the General Studies Area, along with the wider CMS academic community.

The programme was enriched by the presence of Mr. Braj Kishor Gupta, Founder and Chief Mentor of GiantStep; Ms. Sanghavi, South Indian film actress; and Mr. Mohammed Suhaib, Founder of Affectionate Hands. Their participation brought perspectives from mentoring, cinema and social service, connecting academic learning with real-world experiences.

The programme also recognised Ms. Areema Chandra’s contributions and active involvement in NGO-related activities in association with Affectionate Hands, providing her with an internship opportunity and a certificate of recognition for her leadership skills given by Melukote MLA Shri Darshan Puttannaiah. The initiative highlighted social responsibility, community engagement and practical learning.

Film Evaluation and Assessment

The participating films were evaluated on five criteria: story and emotional impact; acting and expression; cinematography and direction; sound, music and editing; and the question-and-answer session.

Celebrating the Winning Teams

First Place – Insecurity

Hellen Elsa Aju, Yazhini V., Aleena Mariyam Varughese, Aishani Thakur and Megha S.

Second Place – Empathy

Yeshika, Lochana Reddy, Vaibhavi Yadav and Krishnag Patni.

Third Place – Battle Within

Aarushi Mishra, Dhwani Dhanuka, Nancy, B. S. Samrudh and Mohammed Fouz.

The successful execution of the event was supported by student coordinators Aleena, Hellen and Yazhini, whose initiative, commitment and coordination played an important role in bringing the programme to fruition. Palak K. Jain and the hospitality team ensured a welcoming experience for the guests, while Vivin and Anish Bose documented the event through photography. Faculty colleagues, staff members, volunteers and participants also contributed to the programme.

Through Beyond Words, CMS highlighted the value of experiential, student-centred education beyond conventional classroom settings. By translating emotions into cinematic narratives, students explored empathy, human relationships and non-verbal communication, connecting emotional intelligence with creative expression and real-life experiences.

Where Emotions Speak, Words Fade.