Oindrila Purohit, founder, asks us to picture an evening where father-child duos indulge in painting, handicraft, storytelling and even horse-riding sessions. Before the distressing mental image of a child riding a horse at a city venue makes you reconsider reading any further, she laughs and clarifies, “These are stick horses that the participants can hop onto and gallop across the open-air venue. It might seem silly, but it is moments like these that leave a lasting impression on children’s minds. We aim to challenge the traditional image of a father that is confined to providing and protecting the family.”

Purohit tells us that the annual event, now in its eighth edition, attempts to infuse hints of tradition and folklore from one state of India every year. “There exists a treasure trove of Indian folk stories and fables that newer generations are never introduced to. We repackage these stories and traditions in a language and form that is palatable to a city audience,” she shares. This year’s UTPT will feature the traditions of Rajasthan with the highlight of the evening being a Kavad Katha session where storytellers will unfold fables using a mobile storytelling device called kavad.

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Oindrila Purohit

In a heartfelt gesture of inclusion, the founder reveals that the event welcomes not only fathers, but also anyone who has embraced the role of a father figure in a child’s life. We leave the organiser with a probing question — Why not plan an event that specifically gives the opportunity to spend dedicated quality time with their children to moms too? Purohit replies smugly, “Well, because they are already doing it.”  

On: December 23; 4 pm onwards
At: NCPA, Nariman Point.  
Log on to: in.bookmyshow.com 
Cost: Rs 1,200 (for one child and one parent)