Oscar-Winning Sound Designer Resul Pookutty to Enhance Futala Acoustics Next Week
Resul Pookutty will focus on perfecting sound quality at Futala's musical fountain as restoration nears completion.
Resul Pookutty will work on audio tuning at Futala next week.
The project aims for consistent sound quality across the viewing gallery.
Technical readiness for public shows is expected by early December.
Next week, Oscar-winning sound designer Resul Pookutty will arrive in Nagpur to refine the acoustic experience of Futala's musical fountain. His involvement comes as the restoration project enters its final technical phase, with a focus on ensuring that sound remains clear and consistent for all visitors, regardless of their location within the viewing gallery.
The restoration project has reached a critical point, with official programming set to begin this month. An international technical team has already initiated the configuration of the fountain's multimedia systems. Following this, audio tuning will take place, leading to the synchronization of water jets and lighting effects over the next month.
Alphonse Roy, the Emmy Award-winning cinematographer and technical director for Futala, emphasized that Pookutty's role extends beyond traditional sound design. He aims to eliminate fluctuations in audio levels as visitors move, creating a seamless listening experience. Pookutty's recent research in Las Vegas on audio systems for large-scale installations has informed his approach, leading him to collaborate with Dolby to customize their algorithm for this unique outdoor setting.
The challenges of Futala's open-air environment, including wind and varying distances between speakers and spectators, necessitate precise audio calibration. Senior officials noted that unlike enclosed venues, Futala lacks walls or ceilings, complicating sound containment. Meanwhile, the programming phase will establish how the fountain's mechanical and electronic systems interact, setting the stage for synchronized water movements, lighting, and sound.
A recent brief display showcased the fountain's progress, with water jets and orange lights illuminating the area. The international team, including experts from Belgium, is finalizing preparations. MahaMetro officials are optimistic about achieving technical readiness by the first week of December, although the formal inauguration will hinge on obtaining necessary approvals. The ultimate goal for Futala is to ensure that every element—sound, light, and movement—works in perfect harmony.
