Over the past four years, the Festival of Life series has grown into one of India’s largest youth-led climate engagement initiatives. In this era of increasing climate consciousness, it remains firmly entrenched in its message of being the lightest festival on Earth. As a living repository, the events have brought together students, teachers, researchers, artists, practitioners and communities to explore India’s rivers, forests, mountains, and coasts and oceans through science, storytelling, art and lived experiences.

Starting at the Azim Premji University campus, Bengaluru, the festival in its traveling avatar has touched the lives of one lakh visitors across India through our exhibition series, organised in collaboration with local institutions, and universities, schools, NGOs and research-based organisations. 

As we prepare for the fifth edition, we thank every school, college, organisation, collaborator, volunteer, intern, folk artist, resource person, researcher and visitor who has contributed to this journey. Your encouragement and partnership have helped shape the Festival of Life into a vibrant national platform for climate learning and public engagement.

What are planetary boundaries?

Scientists have identified nine planetary boundaries that keep the Earth stable and able to support life. These include climate, biodiversity, freshwater, forests and land, oceans, and the natural cycles that regulate our planet. Together, they define a safe operating space for humanity. 

However, scientific evidence now suggests that seven of these nine boundaries have already crossed their fragile threshold. This does not mean there is no hope. It reminds us that the choices we make today will shape the future of life on Earth.

Planetary Boundaries of Life brings together the stories of Rivers of Life, Forests of Life, Mountains of Life, and Coasts and Oceans of Life. This year’s festival helps students discover how these landscapes are connected and why understanding those connections is essential for a sustainable future.

A bigger and more immersive experience

This year’s festival, we would like to believe will be our largest edition yet. It has grown considerably over the years, and this edition offers a richer and more immersive experience designed to encourage students to spend time exploring, participating and interacting. 

A special invitation to schools and colleges

As schools and colleges begin planning your academic calendars, we invite you to reserve a day between 1 and 15 February 2027 for your visit. What to look forward to:

• An immersive exhibition of panels, maps, and installations exploring climate, biodiversity, freshwater, land, ocean, and more
• Talks and discussions with researchers, domain experts, and changemakers
• Live music, cultural performances, and folk traditions celebrating our planet
• Films, storytelling, and hands-on, sensory activities for young explorers
• Real research from our interns who travelled across India to bring these boundaries to life

All you need to know

• Target grades: Open to students from Grade 6 all the way to undergraduates, teachers, and young professionals. 
• Free registration and meals: Entry is completely free for all registered groups. Complimentary breakfast and lunch are provided for all registered institutional visits. 
• Transportation: Free transportation is available for government schools and non-profit institutions. 
• Structured daily slots: Morning (9:00 AM — 12:00 PM) and afternoon (11:00 AM — 2:00 PM) slots supported by guided walkthroughs facilitated by trained volunteers
• Inclusion: Features a dedicated, fully accessible day reserved specifically for children with special needs.

Click here to register: https://forms.gle/TpF3v1RW5c9dP5CSA 

Volunteers 

The Festival of Life has always been built by young people and for young people. Our volunteers are the driving force behind every edition. They help imagine, design and deliver the festival while gaining valuable experience in science communication, storytelling, exhibition design, research, photography, education and event management.

Volunteer applications will open soon. Keep an eye on this page and our social media channels for the announcement. We look forward to welcoming the next cohort of young people who will help make Planetary Boundaries of Life an engaging and meaningful experience for diverse audiences.

Coming soon

Call for applications for Teacher training programme

We will be running a series of teacher Training Sessions for grade 6+ science teachers. Watch this space — more details coming soon!

Please save the dates, share them with your colleagues and students, and plan your visit — bring your curiosity, and we look forward to welcoming you to Azim Premji University in February 2027.

Email us at lifeseries@​apu.​edu.​in for queries