Saluting their indomitable spirit

Ambition, emotions, and achievements are a compelling part of differently-abled people’s lives as they are part of any others. Showcasing some of the trials and tribulations that the differently-abled undergo was a three-day film festival in town. Screening more than 25 films on the theme of ‘disability’, We Care film festival recently concluded at post-graduate courses’ institute, Apeejay Institute of Mass Communication (AIMC), Dwarka.

The 12th edition of the festival saw films including several national and international award winning documentaries on the theme.

The prominent films screened include Goonga Pehelwan — a documentary that follows India's most successful deaf athlete on his unlikely quest to reach the Rio Olympics, 2016. He later becomes the second deaf wrestler in the history of the Olympics to do so.

Departure Lounge is a film that celebrates the beautiful bond of friendship and solidarity that develops between two deaf people. Shining Stars highlights the emotional and physical distress of a terrorist attack survivor in her life and on her journey to become a single mother. Also, screened was a film on visual impairment, Audi made by the
students of the institute.

The films including some shorts attempted to question the stereotypes, myths and misconceptions associated with being differently abled. Satish Kapoor, founder
director of NGO Brotherhood commented, “Films are an effective medium to change the mindset of the audience.”

A photography and painting exhibition accompanied the film screenings.

Organised and showcased in association with NGO Brotherhood, with the support of UNESCO, National Trust, UN Information Centre.“We don’t confine the festival to the students of the institution but also try to reach out to other students of different schools/colleges,” said Prof. Ashok Ogra, director, AIMC.