Schools to screen PM Modi-inspired film ‘Chalo Jeete Hain’

The Ministry of Education has asked schools under the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE), Kendriya Vidyalaya Sangathan (KVS), and Navodaya Vidyalaya Samiti (NVS) to screen the film "Chalo Jeete Hain," which draws on childhood episodes from Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s life.

The screenings will take place between Sept 16 and Oct 2, in line with the Prime Minister’s birthday on Sept 17.

In its circular, the ministry said the film is intended to guide students toward values of character, service, and responsibility.

It is also expected to be used as a learning resource for moral reasoning and social-emotional skills such as empathy, self-awareness, and critical thinking.

The initiative comes under "Prerana," the ministry’s experiential learning program, which has already completed 65 batches and reached learners in 650 districts.

The program is conducted at the historic Vernacular School in Vadnagar, Gujarat, established in 1888, where Prime Minister Modi began his education.

At its core, Prerana emphasizes nine values:
Swabhiman aur Vinay (Self-Respect and Humility)

1. Shaurya aur Sahas (Courage and Bravery)
2. Parishram aur Samarpan (Hard Work and Dedication)
3. Satyanishtha aur Shuchita (Integrity and Cleanliness)
4. Karuna aur Seva (Compassion and Service)
5. Navachar aur Jigyasa (Innovation and Curiosity)
6. Vividhta aur Ekta (Diversity and Unity)
7. Shraddha aur Vishwas (Faith and Trust)
8. Swatantrata aur Kartavya (Freedom and Duty)

To instill these principles, the program uses a mix of storytelling, interactive sessions, traditional games, hands-on projects, and film screenings.

Movies are considered especially effective for presenting abstract values, ethical dilemmas, and historical narratives in ways that resonate with young audiences.

Among them, "Chalo Jeete Hain" is a recurring feature. The film blends real-life incidents with the nine core values and reflects Swami Vivekananda’s belief that "only those who live for others actually live."

Released in 2018, it went on to win the National Award for Best Non-Feature Film on Family Values at the 66th National Film Awards.

The Press Information Bureau (PIB) recently confirmed its nationwide re-release, underlining its connection to Prime Minister Modi’s early years.

Schools have been directed to hold screenings within the given dates. The ministry emphasized that the film will help students think deeply about character, decision-making, and responsibility while strengthening empathy and critical thinking.

As the first cycle of Prerana concludes, preparations are being finalized for "Prerana Utsav," the program’s second cycle beginning in October 2025.

Schools have been urged to share information about the initiative widely to ensure broad participation. More details are available at prerana.education.gov.in.