A still from Had Anhad; the film journeys through song and poem into the politics of religion

The first edition was a hit despite Bhojpuri being the common language of communication. "There was no chief guest, no loudspeakers, just wholesome cinematic content. This festival continued for four days and we saw tremendous response. This kind of cinema was very new to the people of Gorakhpur. And yet, they were seen enjoying the 1950 Jidaigeki psychological thriller Rashomon, as well as works by Hungarian film director Zoltán Fábri."

Poll

Who will win the Punjab Elections?

BJP 32.86%

AAP 41.43%

INC 25.71%

Submit

View All In Poll

Soon, the initiative grew roots in more than 15 cities. The annual festival has entered its 14th year in 2020. The Coronavirus-led lockdown, however, put a stop to the merriment. "We decided to take our campaign online and launched an Instagram page to reach a wider audience. If the initiative doesn't catch the young viewer, it is bound to die. Instagram seems to be right to keep cinema and activism alive."

Sanjay Joshi

Since the first week of July, a new film has been screened every week, with links to movies made available for free viewing over four days. Every screening is followed by a discussion. "So far, we have screened Shabnam Virmani's Had Unhad, a film that finds a myriad answers on both sides of the hostile border between India and Pakistan. We have also showcased The Advocate based on the life of KG Kannabiran, who was India's foremost champion of civil liberties and human right."

To watch Instagram, @cor.india

Keep scrolling to read more news

Catch up on all the latest Mumbai news, crime news, current affairs, and a complete guide from food to things to do and events across Mumbai. Also download the new mid-day Android and iOS apps to get latest updates.

Mid-Day is now on Telegram. Click here to join our channel (@middayinfomedialtd) and stay updated with the latest news