Is there a distinct demarcation in childrens cinema in Iran as the way we categorise in India?
Yes, there is children’s cinema (but which is also popular cinema). We have the Farabi Cinema Foundation in Iran that is named after an eminent intellectual. The Foundation has a separate section called Unit of Children and Young Adult Cinema. There is also the Institute for Cultural Development for Children and Young Adults, a non-governmental organisation, which gets aid from the government to promote the cause of children’s films. Abbas Kiarostami and Talebi are some of the great masters who benefited from this institute. Owing to the popular belief in Iran that a good society starts from children and a healthy childhood, facilities like free education exist aplenty. What do you feel about the role of such festivals for the benefit of children? We are undergoing a transitional phase in Iran, like in India. There are Pizza Huts and McDonald’s stores in Iran too. Young adults in Teheran are trying to ape their favourite singers or actors on popular television channels. In this fast-pa
