SIFF Cinema -- Saturday, October 8th -- Noon

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I Am Kalam

The film revolves around Chhotu, a poor Rajasthani boy, who is inspired by the life of former President of India, A. P. J. Abdul Kalam and his strong desire to learn to read. The character of Chhotu has been performed by Harsh Mayar, a Delhi slum boy.

Letter from Kalam:

I am Kalam!  I come from a small village in Rajasthan, I live there with my mother and little brother. Life here is very difficult. Getting proper meal is a rarity so going to school is just out of question. But I like reading, learning new things and making new friends. When I grow up, I want to be a big man, wear good clothes and a tie and become successful. Mother says that my brain works “Rail se bhi tez”. To help my mother support the family I work with Bhati Mamu at his dhaba. He has a camel, Laxmi. I am her best friend. Tourists from various countries stop at our dhaba. I like talking to them and learning their languages. APJ Kalam ji is my role model. I am his most obedient student. I know that I can become like him if I go to school. I hate it when people call me Chhotu; because I AM KALAM.