Pune: Children Take Center Stage for the Planet at Green Theatre Festival

Pune, 5th June 2025: On the occasion of World Environment Day, an impactful and creative initiative unfolded yesterday at the Green Theatre Festival, jointly organized by Aarambh Foundation & Natakachi Shala. With the theme “Children, the Earth is in Your Hands,” the event not only entertained but also inspired the next generation to take ownership of the planet’s future.

Moving beyond the usual competitions and tree plantation drives seen on this day, the festival used theatre as a medium to raise awareness among children about pressing environmental issues.

Ashwini Ambike, Director of Natakachi Shala and the creative mind behind the festival, shared, “Through theatre, we aim to spark curiosity, provoke thought, and build emotional connection with nature among children. We believe the next generation can drive meaningful change—if we guide them early.”

The event featured three original plays that addressed different aspects of environmental conservation:

“Cycle” – focusing on sustainable travel,

“Chimanyanche Gharakul” – a moving story about the declining sparrow population,

“C1123007” – a futuristic tale about the consequences of ignoring nature.

All three plays were directed by Ashwini Ambike and received applause for their powerful messaging and engaging performances by young actors.

Adding depth to the event, three environmental experts interacted with the audience:

Jalnayak Satish Khade shared his insights on water conservation,

Abhishek Kavitkar, Founder of Tree Public Foundation, spoke on citizen-led afforestation,

Wildlife expert Suhas Abhyankar illustrated the beauty and fragility of the natural world through real-life stories.

Their joint message was simple yet strong: Environmental responsibility must become a part of our daily lifestyle.

The highlight of the festival was a special address by renowned writer, director, and actor Kiran Yadnyopavit, who encouraged the children to write their own plays, keep theatre alive, and understand civics not just as a subject but as a value system to live by.

The entire program was anchored by Manish Khadilkar, who kept the energy high and the audience engaged throughout.

The event was graced by the presence of Mr. Umesh Pawar, Founder of Aarambh Foundation, and Mrs. Dipshree Pawar, both of whom played a pivotal role in bringing this vision to life.

As the curtains fell on this creative celebration, one message remained clear: The Earth’s future is in the hands of today’s children—and they’re ready to act.