The Bethany Sisters have received prestigious recognition for their creative contributions at the Short Film Festival 2024, organised by the South Indian Cinema Television Academy (SICTA). This festival highlights excellence in cinematic and artistic expressions across South India, with a special focus on cultural, devotional, and artistic achievements. While the winners have been declared, the awards will be officially presented on 20th November 2024 at a ceremony to be held at Vyloppilly Samskrithi Bhavan, Trivandrum.
1. Excellence Award for “Bethany Anthem”
Produced by Sr. Saumini SIC, Bethany Anthem has been honoured with the Excellence Award for Devotional Music Video. This anthem, which beautifully reflects the Bethany Congregation’s charism, is a deeply spiritual and creative tribute. Composed with lyrics by Rev. Fr. Oommen Ayyaneth, music by M.J. Thomas, and orchestrated by Binu Felix, the anthem was brought to life through the vocals of Sr. Prasoona SIC, Sr. Annett SIC, and Sr. Melna Maria SIC. The Bethany Anthem stands as a symbol of the congregation’s mission, highlighting the values of faith and unity.
The creative direction of the video was led by Fr. Dominic Moozhikkara OIC, with Jesu Joseph James, Sachin Reeko, and Jomon Joseph as the camera operators. The editing work was completed by Sachin Reeko, ensuring that the video captured the spiritual and visual essence of the Bethany Congregation’s journey.
2. Special Jury Award for “Samarpitham”
Directed by Sr. Vachana SIC, Samarpitham has received the Special Jury Award for its exceptional portrayal of spiritual surrender. With lyrics written by Sr. Unnatha SIC and music by Aanadu Raju, the video conveys a profound message of offering oneself to God’s will. The orchestration and mixing by Binu Felix, paired with the vocals of Sr. Prasoona SIC, Sr. Annett SIC, and Sr. Clara SIC, added depth to the video. The concept and direction by Sr. Vachana SIC, with the camera work and editing by Sr. Prasoona SIC, encapsulate the core theme of devotion.
The video’s significance is further deepened by the fact that it is based on a prayer recited daily by Venerable Mar Ivanios, making it a work of great spiritual relevance for the Bethany community.
3. Excellence Award for “Guruvandanam”
Directed by Sr. Prasoona SIC, Guruvandanam earned the Excellence Award for Devotional Music Video. The song, written by Sr. Michael SIC, with music and vocals by Reju Joseph, is a heartfelt tribute to spiritual mentors, particularly Venerable Mar Ivanios. The choreography, led by Anaswara B.S., was shot at the Bethany Convent in Nalanchira. The video was recorded and mixed at Sarangy Studio, Kochi (handled by Thadevos) and filmed by Jomon Joseph, who also undertook the editing. The performance and production resonate with the congregation’s commitment to honouring their spiritual leaders and guides.
4. Second Best Devotional Music Video for “Bethanynadam”
Bethanynadam, directed by Sr. Rose SIC, won the award for Second Best Devotional Music Video. This vibrant video illustrates the journey of the Bethany Congregation as they move towards their centenary celebrations, creatively portrayed through dance. The choreography, led by Anargha I.S., features performances by Sani Mariam Saji, Esha Theresa Renji, Prarthana S.P., Anaswara B.S., Sivapriya U., and Anjali A. Aju.
With lyrics written by Sr. Amoolya SIC and traditional music arranged by Binu Felix, the vocals were beautifully delivered by Sr. Prasoona SIC, Sr. Geo SIC, and Sr. Annett SIC. The video was produced by the Bethany Sisters, Trivandrum Province, with camera work and editing by Jomon Joseph, and recorded at TRS Digital Studio, Thiruvananthapuram. The video was praised for its artistic and spiritual representation of the Bethany Sisters’ legacy and their journey towards the centenary.
South Indian Cinema Television Academy (SICTA) and the Award Ceremony
SICTA, headquartered in Trivandrum, is a renowned institution that recognises excellence in South Indian cinema, television, and cultural productions. The Short Film Festival is a significant event, now in its sixth season, that celebrates artistic achievements, with categories spanning various forms of cinematic and visual storytelling, including devotional content. The awards for this year’s winners will be formally handed over at the festival’s award ceremony on 20th November 2024, at Vyloppilly Samskrithi Bhavan, Trivandrum.
A Proud Moment for the Bethany Congregation
The recognition of the Bethany Sisters at this prestigious festival is a source of pride for the Bethany Congregation and the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church. Their creative contributions, which combine spirituality with artistic expression, highlight the power of devotional media as a tool for evangelisation. These award-winning videos serve not only as artistic works but also as spiritual outreach, bringing the message of God’s love and devotion to a broader audience.
As the Bethany Congregation prepares to receive these honours in November, their achievements stand as a testament to how deeply faith and creativity are intertwined in our community. The Church celebrates this milestone, recognising how these devotional works will continue to inspire and nurture the faith of the community for generations to come.
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