Lessons in the dark
July 2011
Veteran Doordarshan producer, Manju Singh, who had produced the immensely popular, Ek Kahani, series on DD, based on regional literature, is now using the same value-based ideology to bring international films for children to schools across the country.
The idea of using the medium of cinema as a learning tool through ‘Lessons in the Dark’ in schools took off, when Manju, founder of the WorldKids Foundation, successfully organised the World International Film Festival in 2007 in Mumbai, and thereafter in Delhi and Indore in 2008.
Manju Singh at the film fest where it all began The foundation aims to introduce the kids of today to the right kind of value-based entertainment that will have a positive influence on their impressionable minds.
Explaining the reason for such initiatives, Manju pointed out that 'our endeavour is to engage the children with positive media images and inspire them into thinking and learning, while having a good time. ‘Entertainment with a Purpose’ is the foundation’s mantra.'
`Lessons in the Dark’ the ‘in-school’ programme, provides the best in national and international children’s films. The films are exciting, inspiring and culturally diverse. “Our mission is to encourage creativity, arts and aesthetics while enhancing perception and analytical skills,” says Manju.
Presently regular sessions of ‘Lessons in the Dark’ are being successfully conducted in schools across Mumbai and Delhi. The programme supports the school curriculum and promotes universal values. Regular sessions are also being held for aided schools and NGOs working with the underprivileged.
Next in line is WorldKids Film Club to be started shortly at the NCPA at the Little Theatre where film screenings and workshops will be held on the first Saturday of every month.
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