The Unicef, along with the voluntary organisation Aaina, launched the second season of the short film contest ‘Kallola’ on child rights here on Thursday. Kallola invites film entries in 30, 60 and 90 seconds duration on the theme ‘Discrimination against girls.’ The best five films under the following categories, first, second, third as well as jury choice and children’s choice would be awarded.
The contest is open to professional filmmakers, film students, amateurs or anyone with a good idea and filmmaking skills. Interested participants can log onto www.aaina.org.in/kallola for information on the contest, themes, rules and the entry form. The last date of receiving entries is May 30, Aaina secretary Sneha Mishra informed.
Mishra said, “There are two important additions to the contest. The first is the inclusion of a non-competitive section. This includes films for and by children. Secondly, the films would be screened across the State through regional film festivals, with which we hope to reach and sensitise a larger audience.”
launching the contest, Unicef, Odisha chief Yumi Bae said, “We know that millions of children, especially girls, are discriminated against and deprived of their rights due to factors beyond their control. The inequalities when passed from generation to generation result in an unequal and unfair world. But we know that it doesn’t have to be this way. First and foremost, people’s thinking has to change.”
“Through Kallola, we hope that many young filmmakers would apply their creative minds to produce sensitive films that reach out and inform audiences on this issue,” she added.
The contest is being organised in collaboration with the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII). Former CII chairman JB Pani and theatre veteran Anant Mahapatra were present.