On the eve of World Teacher's Day the 'Amitabh Bachchan Media Scholarship for Excellence in Media' has been instituted by filmmaker Anand Pandit as a gift for students of cinema.

Pandit, who owns Anand Pandit Motion Pictures, says, “I believe that we must do everything possible to infuse fresh talent into the Hindi film industry. There is no one better than Amitji to inspire our younger generations. I feel a scholarship is a small contribution to immortalise the biggest icon of Bollywood as well as give an opportunity to those who exhibit true talent.“

Bachchan, on his part, says, “In a world where creative limitations are constantly being challenged, it is important for every aspiring student of cinema to break new grounds and set new boundaries of creativity. I hope this scholarship will push students of cinema to do that. This is a wonderful gesture by Anand bhai to harness and nurture young talent. He is a dear friend and I am humbled by his gesture in instituting this initiative. I hope this scholarship helps talented individuals to pursue their love for cinema.“

The annual scholarship, which comes with a trophy, a certificate and a cash award of Rs 5 lakh, will be awarded to the student chosen through a stringent selection process. As the announcement was made, Big B handed the first scholarship to this year's winner, Shraddha Thorat, from Whistling Woods International (WWI).

The institute's founder and chairman Subhash Ghai says, “Every year, one student who excels will be awarded the scholarship in consultation with Mr Bachchan and Mr Pandit.“