New Delhi buzzed with purpose on February 26 as the Dadhichi Dehdaan Samiti launched the inaugural Vardan International Film Festival, a groundbreaking event dedicated to raising awareness about organ donation. This two-day extravaganza brought together Bollywood luminaries and policymakers to spotlight one of society’s most noble causes.
Veteran actor Manoj Joshi, a familiar face from numerous blockbusters, graced the occasion and didn’t hold back in praising the initiative. In an exclusive chat, he emphasized how organ donation transforms tragedy into triumph. ‘When a person passes away, their organs can become a lifeline for others—be it eyes, heart, or kidneys,’ Joshi remarked. He shared a moving story of a badminton player who received a heart transplant and is now thriving, proving the life-changing power of such gifts.
The festival features compelling short documentaries crafted by children, underscoring the need to educate the young about this vital topic. Joshi connected it to ancient wisdom, noting that while tapasya defined earlier eras, dana—or selfless giving—holds paramount importance in Kaliyug. He urged the audience to participate actively and amplify the message on social media.
Delhi’s Chief Minister Rekha Gupta also attended, her presence adding significant weight. ‘This is a moment of pure joy for a noble cause,’ she said, imagining the despair of families facing organ failure. She called for collective societal action to normalize organ donation, turning potential sorrow into stories of hope.
As the curtains rose on this pioneering festival, it set a new benchmark for using cinema to drive social change. Organ donation isn’t just an act of kindness; it’s a beacon of humanity in modern times, promising second chances to countless lives.