The concept of an exclusive
cinema for India's children was mooted by our first Prime
Minister Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru whose affection for children
is too well known to be emphasised here again. It was he who
inspired the founding of children's Film Society, India (CFSI)
on 11th May 1955 under the benign presidentship of Pt. Hriday
Nath Kunzru.
The avowed objective of the society was to
undertake and organise production, distribution and exhibition
of feature films and shiorts for children, provide them healthy
and wholesome entertainment, aim to enhance their knowledge,
develop their character, broaden their perspective and help
shape them into useful citizens of modern India.
CFSI plunged into business almost immediately
with its maiden production 'Jaldeep', an adventure story centered
around a lighthouse. The film went on to win the first prize
at the 1957 Venice Film Festival for Children's Films.
Several talented and committed filmmakers,
such as Kidar Sharma, Satyen Bose, Mohan Kaul and Rajindar
Sharma were enthused to make films for children. stalwarts
like Mrinal Sen, Shyam Benegal, Tapan Sinha, Sai Paranjpye
joined them. Moreover, CFSI brought out an animation and puppet
films as well as short documentaries and news magazines on
subjects of special interest to children. Outstanding children's
film were also acquired from other countries. As a pleasant
result, an enviable library of original films was ready for
the country's future citizens. |
