Marathi writer and producer-director Ratnakar Matkari feels that underprivileged children, if given an opportunity, can think and deliver on any subject. Matkari was speaking after a play on woes of child labour was staged by underprivileged kids from various localities in Thane, on Saturday, on the eve of World Day Against Child Labour.
"The purpose behind initiating slum theatre movement in Thane is to encourage underprivileged children from poor backgrounds to enter the world of entertainment by providing them a platform where they can showcase their skills in various aspects of drama and related media like script writing and direction," said Matkari, who was the chief guest at the programme.
The play was organised jointly by Samata Vichar Prasarak Sanstha and Bal Natya Sanstha. "The great performance by these underprivileged children proves the fact that if given opportunity and liberty, these children can think and deliver on any subject as complicated as Constitution, with live references from their own surroundings.''
"I am pleased to see that the very purpose of slum theatre is being successful. If these children continue their vigour and thinking in this manner, they will not not be underprivileged any more,'' he added.
During the programme, a discussion on Constitution was also held. Besides this another group depicted the present day state of women and issues concerning them. Noted actor Uday Sabnis and filmmaker Viju Mane were present on the occasion and cheered up the children during the programme.