Footnotes on Cinema by Thota Tharrani Opens in Chennai

Art Meets Celluloid in a Tribute to Indian Cinema’s Unsung Heroes

Chennai: Padma Shri Thota Tharrani unveiled his latest art showcase Footnotes on Cinema at Alliance Française of Madras, Nungambakkam, blending nostalgia, artistry, and cinematic memory. The exhibition was inaugurated by T.K. Durgaprasad and Pravin Kannanur, with notable attendees including Director Mani Ratnam, Actor Pasupathy, and other prominent figures from the film and art community.

Featuring over 25 large-scale paintings based on sketches made decades ago, the showcase reimagines the magic of vintage film sets—lighting, cameras, and crew—through frames crafted from repurposed doors, windows, and roofing materials. Tharrani’s works pay homage to the behind-the-scenes creators who shape cinematic storytelling.

Dr. Patricia Thery-Hart, Director of Alliance Française, praised the exhibition as “extraordinary,” noting its ability to evoke the spirit of Indian cinema through vivid, imaginative strokes.

Footnotes on Cinema is open to the public until 14 November 2025, inviting visitors to explore the artistry behind the screen.