About CCI
A movement built aroundthe shared experienceof cinema.
CCI exists to make meaningful cinema more accessible and to help communities turn stories into reflection, dialogue, and action.
Our mission
To harness the power of cinema to inspire awareness, educate minds, strengthen communities, empower filmmakers, and drive meaningful social change.
Our vision
A society where every young person can access meaningful films, understand the language of cinema, and use storytelling to participate in public life.
The initiative brings films, facilitation, education, and production support into one connected movement.
What we stand for
Four convictionswe never compromise.
Listen before telling
Responsible cinema begins with attention, consent, and context.
Access matters
Meaningful film experiences should not be limited by geography or privilege.
Dialogue over spectacle
We value thoughtful participation more than passive consumption.
Trust through transparency
Our decisions, partnerships, and use of resources must remain clear.
Our journey
From first screeningsto a national movement.
The first community screenings
Small screenings tested a discussion-led model with students and educators.
Film education pilots
Workshops connected critical viewing with practical filmmaking exercises.
CCI public launch
A shared platform begins connecting screenings, partners, volunteers, and filmmakers.
National chapter development
Local coordinators will adapt the model while protecting shared values and standards.
The people behind it
Founding teamand advisory community.
Aarav Menon
Founder and Program Director — Documentary practitioner focused on public learning and community media.
Nisha Verma
Education Lead — Educator designing film-literacy experiences for schools and colleges.
Rohan Das
Filmmaker Development Lead — Editor and mentor supporting emerging nonfiction storytellers.
Dr. Leela Iyer
Advisor — Education and Youth Development
Sameer Kulkarni
Advisor — Documentary Film Practice
Farah Khan
Advisor — Community Partnerships
Join the movement
Host a screening, volunteer your skills, support a student filmmaker, or partner with us to expand access.