23 August,2017 11:07 AM IST | Mumbai | Snigdha Hasan
If you are miffed with what your kids consume through television and online videos, this Sunday comes with the promise of something enriching
The Girl Who Hated Books and Jaime Lo
If you are miffed with what your kids consume through television and online videos, this Sunday comes with the promise of something enriching. Marking the return of film screenings for children after a temporary hiatus in December last year, Dr Bhau Daji Lad Museum has collaborated with the Consulate General of Canada, Mumbai, to screen short films from the country every month.
Stills from Asthma Tech
"While there are many avenues for film screenings for adults in the city, we felt there was a lacuna when it comes to making quality films available for kids," says Ruta Waghmare, who leads the education team at the museum and is the coordinator of the film festival programme. The animated films touch upon children's rights and weave in a moral, too.
Small and Shy
Known for its rich history of animation, Canada has been one of the pioneers in the industry. "The films have been sourced from the National Film Board of Canada, which is known for its ground-breaking work. Through the shorts, which are rooted in the various communities that call Canada home, we wish to celebrate diversity and inclusion. The year 2017 is special - Canada is celebrating 150 years as a country, and diversity is our theme for the year," shares Consul General Jordan Reeves.
Waghmare takes us through the shorts. "Asthma Tech is about a little boy who can't keep up with his classmates in sports because he has asthma. He feels left out until his classmates discover his hidden talent," she says, referring to the lessons on empathy and togetherness that the film conveys.
Another film, The Girl Who Hated Books, is based on a book by children's author, and judge Manjusha Pawagi. Set in the milieu of an Indian family settled in Canada, it revolves around little Meena, who doesn't pick up books despite being born to parents who are bibliophiles. Meanwhile, Jaime Lo, Small and Shy is about how a Chinese-Canadian girl copes with the absence of her father, who is away on work. "This is something kids in Indian nuclear families grapple with, too, as work-related travel has become common," says Waghmare.
An official from the consulate will be present at the screening to interact with parents and children.
On August 27, 4 pm to 5 pm
At: Dr Bhau Daji Lad Mumbai City Museum, Byculla East
Call: 23731234
Free
