Thanks to Cineart, about 20,500 kids know the significance of environment

Cineart 2010, a yearlong initiative that saw an estimated 20,500 children learning about the significance of environment conservation through various engaging activities, concluded on November 11.

The initiative is conceptualized and implemented by PVR Nest and Moser Baer Trust to promote the idea of school children as ambassadors for a clean and green environment.

In the last 10 months, students from public schools, NGOs and schools for special children were occupied with nature trail and walk, recycle workshops, nature illustrations, conceptualization and submission of original green ideas and paintings. They also learnt the art of filmmaking in association with WWF Nature-India and environment filmmaker Krishnendu Bose.

The 10 inspirational films created by children will propagate the basic principles of ecology and are slated to be screened at PVR cinemas across the country.

As part of the initiative, about 100 kilograms of scrap including beer cans, wires, cardboard boxes and newspaper handbags were used to create installations of the national animal tiger.

‘I am in total agreement with what Pablo Piccaso had said, that â€œevery child is an artist”. The question is how we can empower children to showcase their creativity. Cineart  is such an endeavor by PVR Nest, where children can paint their vision of the world through the medium of cinema. It has been a journey of learning and creativity for children who had participated in the programme. Apart from the learning, I am sure that the children thoroughly enjoyed their close encounter with the wonderful medium of cinema. I was excited watching the films created by these children, who we believe would lead change tomorrow,’ said Ajay Biji, trustee of PVR Nest and the chairman and managing director of PVR Ltd.
 
Nita Puri, chairperson, Moser Baer Trust, said, ‘We think we should leave our heritage and environment in safe and responsible hands, and Cineart is a way of promoting this in the children who are our tomorrow. Environment and conservation of nature are important issues that need immediate attention and action from all of us. I am deeply impressed by the sensitivity and concerns shown towards these critical issues by these children.’