Staff Reporter : Kolkata, 3rd, July, 2025 – A heartwarming initiative turned cinema into a celebration of inclusion as Ek Packet Umeed, in collaboration with India Autism Center, hosted a special screening of the film Sitaare Zameen Par at Quest Mall, Kolkata. The event was supported by FICCI FLO Kolkata and brought together 200+ children with special needs, creating a space filled with laughter, emotion, and hope.
The event was graced by Dr. Shashi Panja, Hon’ble Minister-in-Charge, WCDSW & IC&E, Govt. of West Bengal, as Chief Guest, and actress Koel Mullick as Guest of Honor, both of whom were moved by the spirit of the initiative and spent heartfelt moments with the children.
“Today wasn’t just a screening—it was a reflection of our values. Every child here is a star, and today, they felt it,” said Ayush Sarda, founder of Ek Packet Umeed, whose work across Bengal has impacted 35,000+ lives through education, healthcare, and livelihood programs.
The film Sitaare Zameen Par, which celebrates neurodivergence and challenges societal norms, resonated deeply with the young audience. It was an emotional and empowering experience for children who rarely see themselves represented on screen.
“This film isn’t just entertainment—it’s a movement. We need more moments like this to normalize neurodiversity and celebrate it,” said Koel Mullick, reflecting on the event’s cultural significance.
“We believe inclusion happens when awareness meets empathy,” Spokesperson, India Autism Center. “This screening was more than symbolic—it was a lived experience for our children, who deserve spaces that reflect their reality.”
The event demonstrated the power of partnerships—where purpose-led organizations like Ek Packet Umeed, India Autism Center, and FICCI FLO come together to create lasting change, not just in perception, but in lived experience.
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