Smile Foundation showcased the first look of I am Kalam in a press conference held at the Press Club of India in New Delhi. This film addresses the important issue of child education and Smile is the first ever development organization to produce a feature film.
Speaking to media, Veteran actor Gulshan Grover, who plays an important character in this film said, “This film holds a very special place for me because it is an effort from my end to voice the issue that I have always believed in. This film will definitely help to sensitize the privileged mass to do there bit towards the society.”
Winner of 3 awards, the film has already been selected for 16 film festivals. ‘I Am Kalam’ was premiered in the Marche Du section at the Cannes Film Festival. The movie has already won the Best Feature Film award at the Lucas Film Festival, Don Quijote Prize of the Federation Internationale des Cine –Clubs in Germany and Audience Choice Film Award at the London Film Festival 2010.
Harsh Mayyar, the child artist who debuts with this film said, “I Am Kalam for me was like living my dream in reality. I feel proud to be a part of this great film which depicts the aspirations of so many children like me. I am happy to see the film doing so well around the world. It’s great to hear that the audience globally has appreciated the work.”
Speaking on the occasion Nila Madhab Panda, Director of I am Kalam expressed, “I wanted to send out a message that effort is more powerful then fate and that the privileged mass must join the effort to educate underprivileged children and help them to dream and turn their dreams into breathing reality. The film celebrates the survival of the human spirit against overwhelming odds. It is an inspirational film aimed at both children and adult viewers.”
The Film also received a special mention at the Cine Kids awards held in Amsterdam during the last week of October, 2010.The film is also participating in the International Film Festival of India, Goa and the Mumbai International Film Festival. The movie has also been nominated for the “Politiken Audience Award” at Buster film festival, Denmark; The Lion Award for best feature film; and The Audience Award at the Cinekid Film festival, Amsterdam.