Dear Zindagi (2016), a commercial Indian film by Gauri Shinde, unfolds the story of Kiara, a young, successful cinematographer who grapples with the emotional struggles of abandonment. The film is a pathbreaking attempt to normalise seeking therapy and views it as a sign of strength.

Similarly films and web series like Udta Punjab, The Railway Men and many more have presented critical health concerns at multiple levels. They left the audiences with a better understanding of structural determinants of health.

Cinema has frequently explored themes of health, disease, dying and coping as a canvas for representing ordinary lives. It has often tried to generate understanding about social ills and oppressive practices while sometimes perpetuating subjugation and creating cultural blind spots. At times, it has been used explicitly to spread awareness about issues of public health importance. And at other times, it has engaged with the complex social and psychological dynamics of living through and surviving health crises.

Commemorating World Health Day, Azim Premji University, Bhopal, this year seeks to explore the theme ​‘Health in Indian Cinema’ with the youth of Bhopal through an exciting competition. 

About the competition

If you’ve come across a film that sheds light on the complexities of health — whether in Marathi, Bengali, Malayalam, Kannada, English, or any other language — we want to hear from you! 

If you are a young cinema enthusiast (16 – 30 years) presently in Bhopal, this is your chance to shine! 

Why should you participate? 

• Engage with thought-provoking presentations by peers
• Receive a Certificate of Participation
• Selected participants will be shortlisted based on the depth and nuances of their presentations to present before an esteemed audience, including film critics, on 12 April 2025 in the city. (Location to be disclosed soon)
• Top three presentations will receive attractive Literary Hampers and Certificates for Outstanding Contribution

How to participate? 

• Select a film that resonated with you on health-related themes
• Prepare a 3 — 5 minute presentation, covering:

1. A brief summary of the film (or a key scene).
2. The aspect of health that stood out to you.
3. How it changed your understanding of health.

• You may use stills from the film but no video clips.
• We have curated a list of films to give you an idea of the kind you may choose from. While you’re welcome to pick from this list, your selection may not be limited to it.

How to register? 

Revisit a film, reflect on its message, and submit your registration here. We will reach out to you, once you register for the competition with further details.

See you on 7 April 2025, 2 PM at Azim Premji University!

If you have any queries, please reach out to us at 7999568455.