Children Film Festival celebrated in Meghalaya

Shillong (Meghalaya) [India], Sept. 23 (ANI): In order to strengthen cultural roots and connect children with the mainstream, a Children Film Festival titled 'The Travelling Players' was conducted in Meghalaya recently. Organized by the Children's Film Society of India (CISF) in collaboration with the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, and Directorate of Information and Public Relations, Government of Meghalaya, the festival was held in the Tura district of Meghalaya. Two films were screened as part of the festival, which was attended by children from different schools of Tura. The films showcased India's rich cultural heritage and tradition. Satyaraj Rai, CFSI, North East Coordinator, said, "The main objective is to bring good films and exciting films available to the children in every corner of India. Since our inception, we are engaged in researching, exploring different art forms and cultures, developing educational programmes for the children at the very grassroots level." The festival opened with the Oscar-nominated Mizo film titled, "Kima's Lode - Beyond the class." The film centres around three young children, who were curious to discover the wilderness of the jungles, bunking their classes. The festival was also held in Jowai and Shillong. "Mother I Love you", "Krish, Trish & Baltiboy" and "The Goal" were the other films screened during the festival. The children were enthusiastic as they could connect themselves with the story and the essence of the films. Ronald Sangma, a former joint secretary with the Government of Meghalaya, said, "This is the strongest film platform ever brought to us to develop ourselves and to motivate to those who are aspiring to explore in film industry." Such festivals go a long way in helping children connect with the mainstream cinema and expose them to rich cultural heritage and tradition of the country. (ANI)