Pawan Kumar Sharma, in his evocative piece, rings an alarm on the pressing issues of today, notably environmental degradation and global warming. This is not just another run-of-the-mill commentary; it emanates from the heart of a filmmaker who is acutely aware of the world around him and who uses his art to convey the urgent message.
Sharma succinctly portrays the
urgent state of our natural world, highlighting the falling trees, crumbling
roads, and the erosion of mountains. His depiction is stark, making readers
confront the realities of what unchecked development can lead to. The
statement, which translates to "The time has come not to create anew but
to save what's old," captures the essence of his plea.
A commendable part of the article
is how Sharma melds his professional journey as a filmmaker with his concerns
for the environment. He talks about his film "Vanarakshak", a title
that signifies a guardian of the forests. Through this film, he had hoped to
reach schools, colleges, and the general populace. His candid admittance of the
challenges faced in disseminating the film's message underlines the struggles
conscientious artists often face.
Furthermore, Sharma emphasizes
the importance of conservation over the fervor of new developments, driving
home the point that in our pursuit of modernity, we must not forget the value
of what we already have. This perspective is particularly relevant in today's
world, where rapid development often overshadows sustainable growth.
The call for artists to play a
proactive role in this conservation drive is powerful. Sharma's belief that
mediums like painting, dance, theater, and film can significantly influence
public consciousness is an essential reminder of the influential role art plays
in society.
The article closes with an
invitation to the masses, encouraging them to participate in the Himachal
International Film Festival. Sharma's initiative, where short films with a
message of conservation are showcased, offers a platform for budding filmmakers
to voice their concerns and be a part of the solution.
In conclusion, Pawan Kumar
Sharma's piece is both a reflection and a clarion call, urging society to wake
up to the dire consequences of unchecked development. It's a must-read for
those invested in the future of our planet and the role art and cinema can play
in shaping that future.
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Review by Tanveer Alam
