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Bringing the two worlds of Bollywood and Hollywood movies together, I am happy to write about something a little different this time! Hello, readers. It is a pleasure to provide updates about one of the latest events I was involved with.

I hosted and moderated an in-person conversation with the CEO of Prashant Shah, who visited campus for a meet-and-greet and to provide insights on the world of media, marketing, and movies!

Mr. Shah is a highly skilled professional in content production and is known as the face behind the production of several famous Bollywood movies. Besides excelling in several content-related industries, Shah has been leading Bollywood Hollywood Production Inc. in California for more than 20 years. He is renowned for one of the most famous Bollywood movies ever, “My Name Is Khan,” where he worked closely in the movie's production.

Mr. Shah's most recent movie is Jungle Cry. He has also been involved in such titles as Ra.One, Ekk Main Aur Ek Tu, Dostana, and Ta Ra Rum Pum, among others.

The conversation revealed exciting stories about Mr. Shah that revolved around his everyday lifestyle, content, media, and marketing. It was an incredible opportunity for those who wish to learn what this industry looks like and how real-time challenges are solved. The Department of Communication, Film, and Media Studies was excited to display this relationship between Bollywood and Hollywood movies and bring forth what the two worlds of big movie productions look like.

‘The media landscape continues to change’

Tom Garrett, chair of the Department of Communication, Film, and Media Studies, along with Paul Falcone, director of studio operations and media production, were excited to support the in-person conversation and delve deeper into this informative event with Mr. Shah, whom they have known for decades.

As Bollywood Hollywood Production Inc.'s CEO, Mr. Shah believes that "Hollywood does not make movies; it markets them." The in-conversation uncovered more such thoughts and beliefs by the man himself. The Department of Communication, Film, and Media Studies, along with the College of Arts and Sciences and the Pompea College of Business sponsored this opportunity to help a large group of students understand their career paths in the industries of media, marketing, and movies.

Following the conversation, the Department of Communication, Film, and Media Studies hosted a screening of “My Name Is Khan,” followed by “Jungle Cry.”

Mr. Shah believes media and leadership are crucial industry elements, and he was excited to visit the University of New Haven.

"Talking about media and movies always excites me,” he said. “Indeed, meeting with new students interested in being part of this industry is something I look forward to. The media landscape continues to change for a better evolution while being forward-thinking and acknowledging leadership. The key to successful leadership today is influence, not authority, and having a purpose.”

Anchal Bhatia ’24 MBA is a candidate in the University’s MBA program.