Arena Animation Centre Head: Mr. Rajeev Thakre Interview

Mr. Rajeev Thakre is the Centre Head at the Arena Animation, Mumbai. He has been in the industry of design and multimedia for the last two and half decades. He has a B.Tech in Computer Tech. and is a certified trainer from NSDC as a ROTO Artist. As a pro in the field, many of his short films & music videos have been shortlisted at various film festivals and have received accolades.

What is your philosophy of leadership?

“I lead my team with humility and with the focus on overall development of students”

My philosophy of leading my team revolves around only one objective and that is student excellence. I as an individual believe in leading the team from the front. I believe change is the only constant element so an academy needs to keep learning and keep evolving. 

How do you strategize for the marketing of your school?

“Utilization of Marketing techniques along with a strong ad-campaign”

New age marketing is banking a lot on the digital space. Covid has taught us and opened essential new marketing tools in the digital space. The boundaries of physical space are over and we can reach out to the students across the globe. We have students studying from various cities of India and a couple of students are learning from international cities also.

What can an inbound student gain from studying here in your institute?

“Better internship and training opportunities, that are way more affordable than other countries”

Our education system is very different from the international education system. Our students are easily getting internship opportunities while learning which is a very big advantage for skill-based learning. Additionally, the cost of education in our country for similar technologies is very economical compared to other countries.

Check Arena Animation Courses & Fees

How does your curriculum ensure the best practice of the industry?

“Our curriculum is designed to learn theory, concept and the project based on that concept”

Our curriculum focuses on one approach that is the script to screen. We teach everything from pre-production to post-production. If a student is learning animation then we train him for the principle of animation and he has to implement those principles on projects too. Similarly, if a student is learning graphic design then we teach the students basic drawing and principle of design first then we teach them graphic design. 

What would you like people to know about your institute they may not know?

“Arena offers online training for all design & animation subjects, & international opportunities”

Educational collaborations are an integral part of our curriculum. We have a tie-up with Langara center of entertainment and arts in Vancouver, Canada. Our students will get dual certification from both the arena and Langara. Additionally, they will be getting 3 years of work permit in Canada after the course completion. 

What do you see as the greatest strengths of your institute?

“A strong placement cell, practical-based knowledge and a robust teaching system” 

• Strong technically skilled faculty that has industry experience.
• The practical approach of making a student industry ready
• Industry interactions/visits.
• Masterclasses & workshops by internal & external faculties.
• Excellent job placements.

Any suggestions you would like to give to the aspiring students?

“To have a great professional career one must be self-aware and pursue their passion”

Students must focus on skill-based learning & must leave behind herd mentality. Focus, hard work, and total dedication are the main pillars of a successful career.