Mumbai, June 17: Filmmakers and educators at the 19th Mumbai International Film Festival (MIFF) 2026 on Wednesday stressed the need for cinema to promote inclusion and amplify the voices of children from diverse backgrounds, asserting that films must serve as a platform for empowerment rather than mere entertainment.
Speaking at a press conference organised by the Press Information Bureau on the sidelines of MIFF, the team behind the documentary Naayab – Through the Teacher’s Lens and short fiction film Sona aur Sonam Ke Sapane (Little Big Dreams) highlighted the role of storytelling in fostering understanding, celebrating diversity and building confidence among children.
Filmmaker Shweta Parakh, director of Naayab – Through the Teacher’s Lens, said children should be able to see their own realities reflected on screen, adding that stories rooted in local cultures help young audiences connect with their identities, traditions and communities.
Educationist and project mentor Swati Popat Vats called for moving beyond labels and recognising the aspirations and potential of all children. Referring to the protagonist of Sona aur Sonam Ke Sapane, she said the young girl was not merely pursuing education or independence but was “chasing life”, reflecting the film’s broader message of aspiration and opportunity.
Filmfare Award-winning filmmaker and project mentor Pathik Vats described cinema as a powerful educational tool capable of inspiring empathy, broadening perspectives and shaping social attitudes.
National Award-winning producer Jitendra Mishra said local stories are increasingly finding global audiences and noted that children had actively contributed to the filmmaking process as performers, storytellers and creators.
Mishra said Sona aur Sonam Ke Sapane has received invitations from several international film festivals following its showcase at the Cannes Film Festival and is scheduled to be screened at multiple global platforms in the coming months.
The discussion also underscored the need to focus on the abilities and talents of children with special needs rather than defining them through limitations. The panellists said children’s cinema should act as a catalyst for inclusion, understanding and social change.
The press conference concluded with a collective call for films that reflect diverse experiences and ensure every child has a voice on screen.
