The European Union Film Festival (EUFF), in collaboration with Smile Foundation, has brought back its special initiative, “Bachpan”, dedicated to young Indian audiences. The initiative was a part of the ongoing 10-day festival in New Delhi and aims to introduce children and youth to the power of cinema and storytelling.
The special “Bachpan” day opened with the acclaimed Swedish film UFO Sweden, directed by Victor Danell, followed by a creative storyboard-making workshop for children. The workshop was led by Czech storyboard artist Kurt Van der Basch, who has worked on iconic films such as Star Wars, Jurassic World, and Brahmastra. The event provided young participants with insights into the world of visual storytelling.
EUFF celebrates the Indo-European partnership through culture, art, and cinema, offering a rich diversity of European films. The 2024 edition highlights the creativity of emerging filmmakers, presenting a wide range of genres and formats. As part of its ongoing mission, the festival continues to showcase the power of cinema in promoting cultural exchange and fostering global understanding.
The initiative is backed by SIFFCY (Smile International Film Festival for Children & Youth), which is a key part of Smile Foundation’s efforts to entertain, engage, and empower young minds. SIFFCY emphasizes the value of cinema as a tool for education, promoting moral values, and nurturing empathy in youth.
Speaking about “Bachpan”, Ewa Suwara, Deputy Head of the EU Delegation, expressed, “Our goal is to guide young minds toward creativity and inclusivity through storytelling, helping them appreciate diverse cultures and perspectives.” Santanu Mishra, Chairman of SIFFCY, said: “Good cinema sparks discussions on personal, societal, and global issues, and we’re proud to partner with EUFF to bring such valuable experiences to young audiences.”
This partnership has already benefited thousands of children and youth across India, exposing them to high-quality European cinema and creative skills.