YB Chavan Auditorium transformed into a vibrant hub of creativity and self-expression, as the Kala Ka Karawaan initiative, presented by the Salaam Bombay Foundation, brought together students from Mumbai’s municipal and government-aided schools. This heartwarming event provided these young talents with a unique platform to showcase their artistic and media skills, underscoring the powerful, transformative impact of arts education.
One of the standout moments was the student exhibition from the Arts Academy, where the rich diversity of Indian culture was brought to life through paintings, photography, and digital artwork. The exhibition was not just a display, but a journey into the world of young artists, allowing visitors to engage with the stories behind the pieces. Interactive stalls provided a hands-on experience, allowing attendees to explore skills like photography, filmmaking, podcasting, and magazine writing, all honed through the Media Academy.
The stage also came alive with theatre and dance performances, where students used movement and dialogue to address real-world issues and share their personal experiences. These performances highlighted the power of the arts in building confidence and creating a space for young voices to be heard.
A particularly inspiring part of the event was the participation of alumni who had successfully turned their training into professional careers. Priti Singh, an Arts Academy alumnus, shared her latest paintings, while Sagar Kanojia, once a dance student, returned as a choreographer. Kushal Mahale, now a professional photographer and video editor, proudly presented his portfolio. Their achievements are a testament to the fact that with skill-based education, young people are not only empowered but are also able to create meaningful career opportunities for themselves.
This event wasn’t just a celebration of art, but a powerful reminder of the difference that accessible education and mentorship can make in the lives of young people. It was a beautiful example of how the arts can bring communities together, foster creativity, and change lives for the better.
Speaking about the event, Rajashree Kadam, Senior Vice President (Arts and Media), Salaam Bombay Foundation, said, “Kala Ka Karawaan demonstrates that if students from economically and socially disadvantaged backgrounds are given the right education and opportunities, they can achieve extraordinary success. Our programmes align with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which not only promotes vocational training and creativity but also highlights the significant role of training in arts and culture in students’ holistic development. This event underscores the importance of integrating arts and media into mainstream education.”
Renowned theatre director Jeff Goldberg shared his thoughts, “The confidence, talent, and storytelling skills these students possess are incredible. Arts education is not just about skill-building but also about giving young people a voice. Salaam Bombay Foundation is doing a phenomenal job ensuring that students from municipal schools get these opportunities.”
Bhushan Gagrani, BMC Commissioner, added, “Students in Mumbai’s municipal schools have immense potential. Organisations like Salaam Bombay Foundation prove that, with the right platforms, they can excel in fields beyond traditional academics. We must continue to invest in arts education and skill-based learning for a brighter future.”
Kala Ka Karawaan proved to be a testament to the incredible potential of Mumbai’s youth when given the right opportunities and mentorship. By empowering students through arts and media education, Salaam Bombay Foundation is not only shaping their futures but also inspiring a generation to dream big and achieve even bigger.
