To mark Teacher’s Day, JK Paper, a leader in the paper manufacturing industry, has unveiled a powerful film that celebrates the relationship between teachers and students.
This film shines a light on the exceptional work of Sumeet Sanjay Patil, an art teacher at Snehajyoti Nivasi Blind School in Ratnagiri District, Maharashtra, and his innovative approach to tactile learning. Over the years, Sumeet has taught over 1,000 visually-impaired students the art of painting, using his unique technique of linking colors to fragrances—known as 'Rang-Gandh.'
The method not only motivates students to paint but also builds their confidence, demonstrating that art can be experienced through senses and not just sight. Some of these paintings have been exhibited across the country and has also been used to spread awareness.
The campaign by JK Papers is a tribute not just to Sumeet and all the teachers, but also a celebration of the human spirit’s resilience and creativity.
Set against the backdrop of a bustling Mumbai city and the tranquil Konkan villages, the film narrates Sumeet’s remarkable journey as he introduces his visually impaired students to the realms of art and creativity.
The film begins with a poignant image of a blank canvas, symbolizing the untapped potential within every child. As the story unfolds, viewers witness Sumeet’s groundbreaking methods—such as linking colours to fragrances and using 3D outliners—that enable his blind students to experience and create art in a tangible way.
The narrative is enriched by testimonials from the students, sharing their fears, struggles, and ultimate triumphs. The film concludes with a heartfelt message, highlighting the students’ vibrant, textured artworks that tell their stories through touch rather than sight. These masterpieces represent the limitless possibilities that arise when imagination is nurtured by a passionate and committed teacher.
Partha Biswas, Chief of Sales & Marketing at JK Paper, commented on the campaign, “This Teacher’s Day, we wanted to shine a light on the incredible impact that teachers like Sumeet have on their students, especially those with special needs. His innovative approach to teaching art is not just a lesson in creativity but a testament to the power of tactile learning. The objective of this campaign is to highlight the crucial role of teachers in shaping the lives of their students, particularly those with special needs. It also emphasises the importance of creating opportunities for differently abled individuals to express themselves creatively.”
By showcasing this film, JK Paper and Snehajyoti Nivasi Blind School aim to inspire others to support initiatives that foster creativity in education. With 295 million visually impaired individuals worldwide, including over 10 million in India, waiting for their creative potential to be realized, this campaign emphasizes the ongoing, transformative nature of learning and teaching.