Mumbai Climate Week Leverages Film to Broaden Climate Dialogue
Event summary
- A screening of the documentary 'Turtle Walker' was held on February 9, 2026, as part of the Cinema & Climate Showcase preceding Mumbai Climate Week.
- Mumbai Climate Week (MCW) is scheduled for February 17-19, 2026, at the Jio World Convention Centre.
- The event featured a panel discussion including the film's director, cinematographer, and environmental author.
- Project Mumbai, founded in 2018, conceptualized and initiated MCW in partnership with government entities.
The big picture
Mumbai Climate Week's strategic use of film and art to engage a broader audience represents a shift towards more emotionally driven climate advocacy, moving beyond purely scientific or policy-focused approaches. This approach is particularly relevant in India, where urban centers are increasingly vulnerable to climate change impacts. The event's partnership model, while offering reach, also introduces dependencies on government support and potentially exposes it to political shifts.
What we're watching
- Urban Engagement
- The success of MCW hinges on its ability to engage urban populations, a critical factor given the direct climate impacts felt in Indian cities, and the reliance on emotionally resonant storytelling to drive action.
- Partnership Risk
- The reliance on partnerships with government entities introduces potential political and bureaucratic risks that could impact MCW's long-term sustainability and influence.
- Scale Impact
- The effectiveness of Project Mumbai's citizen-driven model in scaling its impact beyond Mumbai remains to be seen, particularly as MCW aims to establish India as a global climate leadership hub.
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