The Department of Journalism and Mass Communication (DJMC), Islamic University of Science and Technology (IUST), organised an interaction session with popular filmmaker and producer, Kapil Mattoo, on Wednesday. The session highlighted the

intersection of fiction and non-fiction.

During the interaction with students and faculty of DJMC, Mattoo underscored the strong connection between journalism and cinema, emphasising their role in storytelling, community building and authentic representation. “I believe it is our responsibility to tell stories and bring them to the screen,” he stated.

Encouraging students to explore storytelling through cinema, Mattoo highlighted how  journalists, with their strong narrative skills and investigative expertise, hold a unique advantage in filmmaking. He noted that several renowned journalists have successfully transitioned into filmmaking, further reinforcing the deep connection between the two fields.

Discussing industry challenges, including diminishing collaboration among actors, writers and production houses, Mattoo stressed the need to rebuild a thriving creative ecosystem. “We must bridge this cultural disconnect, and it is our responsibility to invest in skill-building and foster a more collaborative creative space,” he remarked.

Mattoo also provided insights into the evolving cinema and media landscape, highlighting opportunities for aspiring filmmakers and journalists. He shared experiences from his own journey in the industry, reflecting on the challenges he faced and the lessons that shaped his career.

The session commenced with a welcome address by Head, DJMC, Dr. Rabia Noor, and concluded with a vote of thanks by Assistant Professor, Dr. Heeba Din. Other faculty members of DJMC who joined the session included Dr. Ruheela Hassan, Dr. Mujeeb Liyakat, Dr. Sayar Ahmad Mir and Dr. Arif Nadaf.

Mattoo was accompanied by RJ Umar Nisar, who had started his radio journey from the radio studio and Pesh Kadam radio programme of DJMC. The guests later paid a visit to the newly set up Community Radio Station of IUST.