‘I’ in ICFFK stands for inclusiveness

Thiruvananthapuram: The presence of children from the marginalized sections of the society has made the second edition of International Children’s Film Festival of Kerala (ICFFK) a special one.
The organizer, the Kerala State Council for Child Welfare, has not only included children from tribal communities and orphanages, but also those with physical disabilities.
The first three days saw the participation of around 240 children from the tribal communities in Thrissur, Kollam, Malappuram, Idukki and Wayanad. The next three days will see children from tribal areas in Ernakulam, Thiruvanathapuram and Palakkad enjoying the festival. “Accommodation, food and every other needs are take care of by the council. We have been trying to cover every district,” said P Sasidharan, programme coordinator, ICFFK.
“Giving them an opportunity to be a part of this film journey is not just about watching a wide variety of films in different genres but also getting a chance to be a part of the open forum. Apart from exposure to international films, the children will get a chance to sightsee the capital city too,” he said.
Anju K V a Class X student of Theyyeni Govt School of Eleri in Kasaragod, said she enjoyed ‘101 Chodyangal’ and ‘Kakka Muttai’ the most.
“This is my second time at ICFFK and I’ve liked all the movies I have watched. Apart from ICFFK, I haven’t been to any film festivals and I really liked those three days.” Sujeesh S, a Class VIII student from Chelakkara, Thrissur said.
Both Anju and Sujeesh belong to tribal community.
Children from different districts are guided by the respective district council of child welfare committee.
For Karthik J S, a student with cerebral palsy, the film festival is the only opportunity to watch films in theatre. He came to the film festival with his grandmother Valsala Kumari.
“I live with my grandparents and it is difficult for them to take to a film theatre near our house in Kallar. Here, the volunteers are helpful. I enjoyed watching films and interacting with people here. I hope to attend the next film festival too,” said Karthik, who passed Class X and is planning to pursue higher studies.