Can you tell us a little about yourself and your background? How did you become interested in advocating for child rights and documentary filmmaking?

Hello, I’m Priyaswara Bharti, often called “Prabhavshali Priyaswara.” Originally from Gopalganj, I’ve been living in Patna, Bihar, since 2009, where I completed my mass communications degree from Patna University. My journey in child rights advocacy and documentary filmmaking is rooted in meaningful experiences that shaped my perspective.

My advocacy began in 2017 with the founding of "Bihar Youth for Child Rights." A pivotal moment was attending a 2013 workshop on Bal Niti, which aimed to simplify child rights policies for children. This experience opened my eyes to social issues, inspiring me to raise awareness among vulnerable children.

A turning point came during a UNICEF meeting where I was the only child present in discussions about media representation. This highlighted the need for children’s involvement in decisions affecting them. With UNICEF’s guidance, I launched initiatives to empower youth and amplify their voices.

My passion for documentary filmmaking emerged during my time with “Khilkari” where I honed my skills through workshops and projects. This blend of advocacy and storytelling drives me to create meaningful change and inspire transformation through my work.

What motivated you to establish Bihar Youth for Child Rights? Could you share some of the key goals and initiatives of the organization?

The lack of awareness among children about critical social issues and their underrepresentation motivated me to start "Bihar Youth for Child Rights." The initiative focuses on bridging gaps in youth participation and representation, empowering individuals aged 9 to 25.

We address topics like sexual reproductive rights, gender equality, and child marriage through campaigns and activities. By equipping youth with knowledge and tools, we prepare them to tackle challenges and seize opportunities in an evolving world, fostering a generation of informed, empowered citizens.

Could you tell us about your involvement with the Young People’s Action Team? What kind of activities and initiatives does the team undertake?

As part of UNICEF’s Young People’s Action Team, I contribute to shaping youth-focused policies and programs. This diverse team advises UNICEF on issues relevant to young people.

We participate in board meetings, volunteer for initiatives, and offer insights that guide impactful campaigns. Our work bridges the gap between global decision-making and youth perspectives, ensuring that young voices influence meaningful change.

As a documentary filmmaker, you’ve focused on the issue of dowry in Bihar. What prompted you to choose this subject for your films? What impact do you hope to achieve through your documentaries?

Growing up in Gopalganj, I witnessed child marriages and dowry practices as normalized traditions. Moving to Patna exposed me to the power of films as tools for change.

Through my documentaries, I aim to unravel the harmful impact of dowry, ignite critical conversations, and challenge deep-rooted societal norms. My goal is to inspire collective action and pave the way for a more equitable society.

One of the campaigns you led focused on preventing stigma and discrimination during the COVID-19 pandemic. How did you address these issues, and what were the key outcomes?

During the pandemic, misinformation and discrimination surged. Through the "Ab Meri Bari" initiative with Dasra, we launched the "Help and Heal" campaign under "Bihar Youth for Child Rights."

We guided individuals through vaccination, debunked myths, and addressed stigma with impactful short videos. These efforts fostered unity, dispelled fears, and encouraged shared resilience in combating the pandemic.

What challenges have you faced as a child rights advocate and filmmaker? How did you overcome them?

Coming from a modest financial background, I faced hurdles like irregular schooling and limited resources. Despite this, I defied stereotypes, self-taught myself, and relied on resourcefulness to pursue my education and advocacy.

Tutoring, freelancing, and consistent self-effort helped me overcome challenges. These experiences taught me resilience, empowering me to continue advocating for change and crafting impactful stories.

How do you collaborate with other organizations or individuals to amplify your impact?

Social media plays a crucial role in building networks and partnerships. By sharing our initiatives and achievements online, we connect with diverse NGOs and individuals.

These collaborations bring fresh perspectives and broaden our impact, ensuring our efforts resonate widely and foster meaningful change.

What are your future aspirations for child rights advocacy and documentary filmmaking?

I’m currently working on a documentary about trans rights activist Ms. Reshma Prasad. Looking ahead, I aspire to take my films to the global stage, creating impactful narratives that inspire change.

For "Bihar Youth for Child Rights," my vision is for it to thrive as a platform for empowering youth, led by a team of dedicated young advocates ensuring the continuity of its mission.