The 15^th CMS Lucknow International Children’s Film Festival (ICFF) 2026 represents a sustained commitment to purposeful education in a rapidly evolving world. At a time when visual media shapes opinions, attitudes and aspirations more powerfully than ever before, education must extend beyond academic achievement and equip children with discernment, empathy and global awareness.

CMS Lucknow ICFF was established with a clear objective: to use cinema as an instrument of value-based learning. Inspired by the vision of Late Dr Jagdish Gandhi and the guiding philosophy of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam – The World is One Family, the festival continues to uphold the belief that meaningful storytelling can nurture responsible citizenship and strengthen the foundations of peace.

The 15^th edition reaffirms this mission. It brings together carefully curated feature films, short films and animations from across the world, selected through a rigorous international jury process. Each film is assessed not only for artistic merit but also for its educational depth, ethical perspective and cultural relevance. The intention is not merely to entertain, but to encourage reflection, dialogue and critical thinking.

With participation from nearly one lakh students annually, including those from mainstream, government and special schools, CMS Lucknow ICFF remains one of the largest school-led children’s film festivals globally. Its scale is significant; however, its real impact lies in the learning it enables. Through structured screenings and moderated interactions, students are guided to interpret narratives thoughtfully, appreciate diverse perspectives and develop informed viewing habits.

In a media-saturated environment, young people require the ability to distinguish substance from distraction. The 15^th CMS Lucknow ICFF 2026 provides a credible platform where cinema is positioned as a constructive educational medium. It also offers exposure to filmmakers and industry professionals, opening pathways for creative exploration while reinforcing responsibility in artistic expression.

This festival is not designed as a spectacle, but as a deliberate educational intervention. It integrates art with ethics, creativity with conscience and global storytelling with local engagement. By doing so, it strengthens the role of schools in shaping not only competent learners but compassionate human beings.

I commend the CMS Department of Events & Media Production and all collaborators for their dedication in organising this significant educational event. I also encourage parents and educators to actively engage with children during the festival, turning each viewing into a meaningful conversation.

We invite students, educators and families to participate actively in the 15^th CMS Lucknow International Children’s Film Festival (ICFF) 2026. Let each screening become a conversation, each story an opportunity to learn, and each interaction a step towards unity.

Together, let us advance the cause of responsible global citizenship and a more peaceful world.

Jai Jagat