Dhwani- Media-on-a-Bike

ENABLING CREATIVE EXPRESSION

Dhwani Media-on-a-Bike is revolutionizing media access across underserved communities and government schools in both rural and urban areas of India. This mobile program empowers children to tell their stories through photography, films, audio, and animation. By equipping them with creative skills to script, produce, and share impactful content, Dhwani amplifies their voices, showcasing their talen

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Overview

Information on this page is provided by the innovator and has not been evaluated by HundrED.

Updated June 2025

Web presence

2024

Established

4K 2023

5K 2024

12K 2025

1

Countries

All students

Target group

Dhwani transforms education by blending creativity and media literacy, particularly in underserved communities. The program sparks children’s imaginations, allowing them to express themselves through storytelling, content creation, and critical thinking. We envision a future where every child has the tools to connect with the world, fostering personal growth and educational development

About the innovation

Why did you create this innovation?

Dhwani was created to address the lack of media literacy and creative outlets in underserved communities, particularly in government schools. We recognized that many children lacked the tools to express themselves or engage critically with the world around them. By providing accessible media education, we empower them to tell their own stories, fostering confidence and creativity.

What does your innovation look like in practice?

Dhwani Media on a Bike brings media education directly to underserved communities through a mobile setup. An instructor, equipped with media kits, travels to schools, providing children with the tools—iPads, microphones, and tripods to explore storytelling, filmmaking, and digital media creation. The program concludes with a community fair, where participants share their work, showcasing the power of their voices. The best stories are curated in Aha Katha, a book and online platform that offers a global stage for their creativity. Dhwani fosters confidence, creativity, and new opportunities, helping children connect with the world in meaningful ways.

How has it been spreading?

Dhwani Media on a Bike is now active in over four states across India, with 11 bikes bringing media education to remote communities. The program has grown through local partnerships, expanding its reach each year. We produce two editions of Aha Katha annually, showcasing the creative work of participants. This year, a mega creativity fair was held, engaging over 5000 children and giving them a platform to display their skills. The stories are also shared on Aha Konnect, an online platform that amplifies their voices. As the program continues to expand, it empowers young creators, providing opportunities for self-expression and personal growth.

If I want to try it, what should I do?

To bring Dhwani Media on a Bike to your community, connect with Agastya International Foundation to explore partnership opportunities. We collaborate with local schools and organizations to roll out the program in underserved areas, sparking creativity and learning. You can also dive into the Aha Konnect platform to access inspiring stories and resources from communities already making an impact.

Implementation steps

Overview and understanding

Interested individuals should first explore the details of Dhwani Media-on-a-Bike by visiting Agastya International Foundation’s website or connecting with the team via email or phone. The team will provide an overview of the program and discuss how it can be tailored to suit local needs through partnership opportunities.

Needs Assessment and Collaboration with Schools

Agastya collaborates with the education department and government schools to emphasize the importance of media education in underserved communities. Through direct engagement, the value of the program is communicated, ensuring alignment with the schools' goals and addressing the unique needs of the students. This collaboration ensures the program’s relevance and seamless integration into the local educational framework.

Set Up Media Kits and Equipment

To ensure the effective delivery of media education, Agastya equips instructors with Media Kits, which include iPads, microphones, tripods, and workbooks, specifically tailored for hands-on learning. These kits are purchased based on the program's requirements and transported by the instructor via the bike to each location. The setup is designed to be mobile, enabling real-time media creation in communities regardless of infrastructure constraints.

Schedule Program Sessions

The program consists of 20 sessions, each lasting two hours, covering topics such as story writing, shooting, editing, and media production. The sessions are scheduled based on the community or school’s availability, ensuring flexibility and maximum participation. This approach allows the program to run smoothly over the planned weeks.

Conduct Sessions

Agastya facilitators conduct the sessions on-site, guiding participants through each step of creating media content, including films, radio programs, and stories. Children work in groups, collaborating hands-on with the equipment and receiving personalized instruction on storytelling, shooting, editing, and producing. This group-based approach fosters teamwork while helping them develop practical media skills.

Participate in the Kala Kootami Fair

After completing the program, participants are encouraged to showcase their work at the Kala Kootami fair, held within schools. The event provides a platform for children to present their films, art, and performances to their peers and teachers, fostering creative expression and building confidence. This opportunity allows them to share their talents and gain recognition within the school community.

Share Work on Aha Katha and Online Platform

The stories, films, and other media produced during the program are compiled into Aha Katha, a book that is also shared on the Aha Konnect platform. Participants access the platform to view and share their work, expanding their audience beyond the school community. This allows their voices to reach a broader audience, amplifying their creative expressions.

Ongoing Support and Evaluation

After the program, Agastya provides ongoing support to help participants refine their media skills and continue their creative journeys. The program is evaluated for its effectiveness, with feedback collected from both participants and facilitators. Based on the evaluation, adjustments are made to improve the program for future implementations, ensuring its continued success and impact.