Short film ‘Khilauna’ releases on Children’s Day

Mumbai, Nov 14 (IANS) Director Rajat Agrawal's short film titled "Khilauna" released on Tuesday on the occasion of Children's Day.

"I am happy the film is releasing today (Tuesday) on the digital platform. It would give a chance to children and their parents to watch it and make them think about how something as small as a toy can have an affect on the minds of children," Agrawal said in a statement.

The idea came to him a year ago.

"When I was an assistant director, I had gone for shopping. I saw a kid who had his birthday that day. He was with his parents in a toy store. His parents had already gifted him one toy, but the child was persistent to have more," he said.

His parents gave in to his demands and bought more toys for him.

"It made me think how the parents were splurging, but at the same time there must also be a poorer family. Their children might also be keen to get new toys, but their parents can't afford it.

"Hence, I thought of presenting something that showcases this juxtaposition with toys being the central character of the story."

On one hand, the film shows how the rich are splurging on their children's constant demands and on another, there is a child who steals toys because he can't afford it.

"There is nothing right or wrong in this. It's their current situation, age and surroundings that make them act the way they do," he said.

"Khilauna" was earlier screened at the Urbanworld Film Festival in New York.