Rushes Film Society is a student-run initiative at St. Joseph’s University (SJU), founded in 2014 by Dr. Maruthu Pandiyan. The society is driven by the collective efforts of SJU students who manage and curate its activities, united by a shared passion for cinema and storytelling. Rushes Film Society aims to create a dynamic platform that brings together aspiring filmmakers, industry professionals, and devoted cinephiles—ensuring that creative voices are heard, artistic expression is encouraged, and meaningful cinema is showcased and appreciated. With a strong focus on supporting young and ambitious talent, the society primarily hosts film festivals, along with workshops and masterclasses that foster learning, dialogue, and creative growth.

Film is an expensive form of expression but creativity knows no bounds. We are storytellers and all of us want our story to be heard. In a changing world where access to the right information changes lives, the Rushes Film Club aims to cut the clutter and facilitate the exchange of creative ideas that make an impact. Film is an expensive form of expression but creativity knows no bounds. We are storytellers and all of us want our story to be heard. In a changing world where access to the right information changes lives, the Rushes Film Club aims to cut the clutter and facilitate the exchange of creative ideas that make an impact.

The Rushes Film Festival (RNFF) —our flagship annual event—is conceptualized and organized by students, reflecting their vision and commitment to cinema. The festival presents a curated selection of innovative, high-quality, and groundbreaking films spanning international to regional spaces, complemented by masterclasses and workshops led by industry professionals.