Film producer and social worker Smita Thackeray, founder and chairperson of Mukkti Foundation, extended her ongoing mission of empowering underprivileged children by serving mid-day meals and launching the “Art and Drama Workshop” at Taraben Master School, Santacruz.
The new initiative, launched in collaboration with Anupam Kher’s Actor Prepares, will provide free workshops in dance, drama, and acting for children from slum areas. Conducted by professional trainers, the workshops will help students develop confidence, communication skills, creativity, discipline, and leadership qualities. Selection will be school-based, with special focus on nurturing raw talent.
This announcement was made alongside Mukkti Foundation’s ongoing food donation drive, “Aao Bhookh Mitayein” (Let’s End Hunger). Emphasizing the need for holistic growth, Smita Thackeray said, “Every child deserves not just food, but also a platform to showcase their creativity. Mukkti Cultural Hub is here to nurture hidden talent and give underprivileged children the same opportunities that others get.”
Motivating the students, she added, “You study every day, but along with education, your talent must also shine. Whether it’s dance, music, singing, or acting—express it without fear. Build your confidence and present your art openly, even before thousands of people. That is the first step toward success.”
Thackeray also highlighted the Foundation’s philosophy: “Once hunger is removed, talent blossoms. That’s why Mukkti Foundation runs the ‘Aao Bhookh Mitayein’ campaign. Now, through the Mukkti Cultural Hub, we aim to bring children from slum communities forward and even connect them with opportunities in films, theatre, and music videos. I am thankful to Anupam Kher for joining hands with us in this noble mission.”
She further stressed, “Talent should not remain confined to the privileged. Every child, regardless of background, must have an equal opportunity to nurture their creativity.”
Over the years, Mukkti Foundation has worked extensively in the fields of women’s safety, education, and healthcare, impacting thousands of lives for more than 26 years. The NGO’s meaningful initiatives have received support from Bollywood celebrities such as Tiger Shroff, Varun Dhawan, and Shraddha Kapoor.
With this dual initiative of food and cultural empowerment, Smita Thackeray and Mukkti Foundation continue to bridge the gap between nourishment and nurturing talent, giving underprivileged children hope, confidence, and opportunity.
