Lucknow: The fourth day of the International Children’s Film Festival (ICFF-2026), organized by City Montessori School at its Kanpur Road Auditorium, was held with great enthusiasm, further strengthening its role as a vibrant platform for the holistic development of children.
Thousands of students continued to draw inspiration from a rich selection of educational films from around the world. The day began with a ceremonial lamp lighting, setting a positive and celebratory tone for the proceedings.
Actress Simran Ahuja and actor Sanjay Swaraj graced the occasion, energizing the atmosphere and motivating the young audience with their presence.
CMS Manager Geeta Gandhi Kingdon stated that the festival had been gaining immense popularity not only in Lucknow but across the country. She noted that it was a matter of pride for the city that eminent personalities from the film industry and academia were visiting and encouraging children. She further emphasized that the festival, being free of cost, enabled children from all sections of society to come together, enjoy educational cinema, and foster values of love, unity, and brotherhood.
The fourth day’s screenings commenced with the Brazilian children’s film “Talent Night.” A wide array of films including Sabak, The Free Cure, Holi Hai, Street to Stars, The Last Teaching, Grands on Vacations, Better Luck Next Time, Forever With You, Bapu Ke Saath, Alligators of the Galaxy, Silent Voice, A Sock Left Empty, Fish on the Hook, Ghar Kiska Hai, School is a Lighthouse of Society, Margdarshak, A Change of Heart, Small Good Things, Mine is Yours, and The Quest were also screened and appreciated by the students.
Films from multiple countries and languages were presented with English and Hindi subtitles, allowing students to easily understand and connect with diverse stories. The festival continued to provide valuable lessons in character building and moral values through cinema.
During a press interaction, Simran Ahuja described the festival as a unique initiative that encouraged children to move away from negativity and embrace positivity. Sanjay Swaraj also lauded the efforts of CMS, stating that such initiatives played a significant role in the all-round development of children and that providing healthy entertainment free of cost was highly commendable.
Festival Director Ahmad Hameed Shaikh informed that the screenings of world-class children’s films would continue free of cost on April 10. He added that actress Mahak Dhingra and Miss Universe India Manika Vishwakarma were expected to attend the next day to encourage the students.
