Patna: A three-day Gandhi Film Festival began at Bapu Tower in Gardanibagh on Wednesday, offering schoolchildren and visitors an opportunity to explore Mahatma Gandhi’s life, ideas and legacy through rare films and archival documentaries.The festival, jointly organised by the National Film Development Corporation (NFDC) and Bapu Tower, was inaugurated by state building construction department secretary Pranav Kumar.Addressing the gathering, Kumar said Gandhi’s influence on cinema has been visible since the early days of filmmaking and continues to inspire filmmakers. “Cinema has played an important role in taking Gandhi’s life, philosophy and message to the masses,” he said.Bapu Tower director Vinay Kumar said the festival aims to connect younger generations with Gandhian thought through the medium of cinema. He said the event seeks to present Gandhi beyond textbook narratives and encourage students to engage with the ideas that shaped his life and public actions.Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) Patna regional director Swadha Rizvi and Cine Society president R.N. Das also addressed the programme.Delivering the keynote address on “Gandhi and Film”, noted film critic Vinod Anupam described Gandhi’s life as a cinematic canvas that has inspired filmmakers across the world. Gandhi Museum secretary Razi Ahmad, who presided over the programme, highlighted the continuing relevance of Gandhian values.The festival opened with Richard Attenborough’s acclaimed Gandhi (1982), followed by Gandhi – Prophet of the 20th Century (1940). On Sept 10, Mahatma Gandhi Talks (1931) and A Boundless Idea (1970) will be screened.The event, conducted by Bapu Tower under secretary Arun Kumar Pathak, drew a sizeable gathering and will continue till Sept 11. Deputy director Lalit Kumar Singh proposed the vote of thanks.
