A vibrant wave of youthful energy swept through Teach For India‘s “Lights, Voices, Action!” film festival, as the Make Calcutta Relevant Again (MCRA) initiative, spearheaded by Meghdut Roychowdhury, brought its unique “Hijibiji Podcast” to the forefront. The two-day celebration, held on March 22nd and 23rd, 2025, became a canvas for creativity, featuring independent cinema, powerful street plays, captivating music, and engaging workshops, all designed to ignite the imaginations of young minds.
At the heart of this joyous gathering were the screenings of the “Hijibiji Podcast” episodes, where Meghdut, affectionately known as “Hijibiji”, engaged in heartfelt conversations with students from St. Patrick Day School. These dialogues delved into the essence of Calcutta, the importance of environmental stewardship, and the multifaceted experience of growing up in today’s world. The children’s enthusiastic reception of the podcast underscored its power to connect and inspire.
“It was truly enlightening to hear the perspectives of these young minds”, reflected Meghdut Roychowdhury. “The ‘Lights, Voices, Action!’ festival, and especially these podcast recordings, became a window into how today’s children perceive themselves and their surroundings. They are insightful, passionate, and possess a unique clarity that gives me immense hope for the future. Teach For India’s dedication to creating such a platform for them is commendable.”
On the festival’s final day, the MCRA team joined the festivities, sharing in the children’s boundless enthusiasm. They sponsored the day’s meals, adding to the celebratory atmosphere. The children were captivated by Hijibiji’s infectious energy, and the closing show, featuring singer Debdeep Mukhopadhyay, transformed into a jubilant dance and sing-along, uniting everyone in a shared moment of joy.
Teach For India’s “Lights, Voices, Action!” festival, amplified by the “Hijibiji Podcast,” served as a powerful reminder of the transformative potential of art and dialogue. It demonstrated the importance of providing spaces where young voices can be heard and celebrated. As the echoes of laughter and music faded, a sense of hope lingered, a belief that these young minds, empowered and inspired, will shape a brighter, more vibrant future for Calcutta and beyond.