Homework: Restoring the Joy of a Carefree Childhood

The world is evolving into a mechanical generation, where children are increasingly disconnected from their environment because of the demands of homework and the weight of their school bags, resulting in a suppression of their creativity and a deprivation of the natural delights of childhood. It is widely acknowledged that contemporary society is marked by a significant competitive environment, particularly within urban settings. With this awareness in mind, parents explore every conceivable opportunity to enhance the prospects of children in this unyielding competition, beginning from a young age. From getting out of bed in the morning till going to bed at night, a youngster must go through a tedious, tiresome, and painful routine. 

Film still

            In place of the authentic joy that should define childhood, today’s children find themselves burdened by the relentless pressures of homework and the weighty school bags that strain their little backs. Additionally, the pressure of tuition classes takes away their time for afternoon play. Moreover, the constant schedule of activities that requires children to travel from one place to another for different skill development, such as dance, music, art, swimming, karate, and learning musical instruments—only increases their stress. In reality, a child acquires the fundamental lessons of life from the open environment of the home, from nature, and through a joyful atmosphere, from the opportunity to engage in creative activities. However, regrettably, the majority of children are presently deprived of such an open and encouraging environment. In the upbringing of a child, a harmonious blend of discipline and order is indispensable, however overbearing control and pressure can hinder the natural development of a child’s talents.

            The existing rigid educational system contributes to undue psychological stress on children to the same extent as the boundless ambition and lack of maturity displayed by certain parents and guardians. Currently, these issues have emerged as a significant social epidemic affecting children and adolescent learners. Society bears the responsibility for resolving this issue and returning to children the happiness of a carefree childhood. The new Assamese film Homework can be regarded as a representation of this social responsibility. The film skillfully portrays how an educational institution transforms into a prison-like environment under the strict regulations of urban life. In contrast, it beautifully illustrates how children in rural society can thoroughly comprehend their lessons amidst the pristine natural surroundings. The film effectively showcases a child’s passion for learning, flourishing in a nurturing rural setting that fosters his academic endeavours despite facing various challenges and contradictions. Director Achintta Shankar has adeptly conveyed the film’s narrative with remarkable simplicity. The soulful melody “Jantra”, a contemporary reinterpretation of the well-known song “Aami Jen Jantra” composed and performed by the beloved artist Zubeen Garg, has been newly developed to align with the film’s narrative, serving as a significant emotional anchor for the movie’s plot.

            It is particularly important for parents of children and students, as well as teachers, to watch this film. The messages conveyed by Homework, intended to cultivate today’s children, the future members of society, into compassionate individuals rather than mere robots, are highly relevant, touching, and thought-provoking. The film has turned out to be quite enjoyable, thanks to the seamless integration of sensitive dialogue, sound, lighting, and music, along with the natural performances of all the artistes.

            It’s truly heartwarming to finally see a genuine children’s film again after a lengthy period of time. It is worth noting that the film Akon, directed by Gauri Burman, was the first-ever Assamese children’s film released in 1980. Another notable Assamese children’s film is Abuj Bedana, which was released in 1993 and directed by Gunasindhu Hazarika. What makes this film even more special is that Gunasindhu Hazarika directed it despite losing his eyesight.

            The cast of Homework includes seasoned veterans and newcomers such as Debajit Majumder, Hiranya Deka, Debajit Hazarika, Podmaraag Goswami, Chinmay Chakraborty, Rimpi Das, and Gayatri Mahanta, alongside child artistes Surjanga Jeeu Margherita, Brityanta Nayan Kashyap, Divyan Bhashkar Kashyap, Kritartha Kanta Barua, Mayank Das, Prisha Mour and Alankrita Podmaraag Goswami.

            The film is produced by Mukesh Mour and Nidhi Mour under the banner of Outreach Advertising Pvt. Ltd. It is based on a story by director Achinta Shankar, with the screenplay and dialogues penned by Himanshu Nath. The music is composed by Zubeen Garg and Paraan Barkataki. Cinematography is by Rupamjyoti Saikia, sound design by Debajit Gayan, choreography by Pankaj Ingti, makeup by Bhaskarjyoti Dutta, costumes by Dhiraj Deka, and editing by Ritu Ranjan Hatimuriya.

 ***