We are not sure if parents are happy with this decision of Karnataka's Primary and Secondary Education Minister, S Suresh Kumar to introduce Bagless Day, but it is a double delight for kids going to school — as they will carry no books and get to watch a movie. At the International Kids Film Festival organised by LXL Ideas and Dell India in association with the Department of Education, Government of Karnataka, S Suresh Kumar said, "After watching this year's Children's Day celebrations, we have decided to introduce Bagless Day at all the schools from the next year. According to this, children need not carry bags on one particular day in a week. Instead of normal studies, children will watch one movie on that day which will convey a social message. Apart from movie, there will be fun activities that can help them develop their skills."
He further added, "I was told that at least 9,000 school kids are watching the movies played at the International Children's Film Festival across India. Out of this, around 7,000 schools are government schools. It is a sign of happiness and good development. One should not just watch movies for entertainment but carry a social message that the film wants to convey."
Narrating how much of a movie buff he was, he said, "It's been many years since I have watched films. At one point in time, I watched 80 to 90 films per year. When I joined politics, I decided to avoid watching films. This year, Athleticus is the second movie that am watching. The first one that I watched was a children's film called Mohandas which showcased the life and ideologies of Mahatma Gandhi."
Advising parents on how good they have to be with their children in terms of interaction and understanding, he said, "Children's Day does not mean to take care of a child for a day and forget them for the rest of the year. The responsibilities of parents don't end when their children go to schools. They have to make a point to interact with their children once they are back from schools on daily basis."
He went on to add that a cyber fast or detox was much needed, "Recently there was a campaign called 'Selfie Mummy Google Daddy Makkala Kathe Kelabedi'. This shows how busy and engrossed the parents are. Last year, on the occasion of Good Friday, A Syrian Christian church in Kerala had directed people to observe a cyber fast along with the normal fast that they do. I felt happy about the instructions they gave. Similarly, one day, we must dedicate one such day in a week where we a observe cyber fast. This will help you grow along with your children and inculcate good habits."
