The festival uses art, culture and science to build awareness about nature, climate change and sustainability. The series began with Rivers of Life in 2022, followed by Forests of Life (2023), Mountains of Life (2024) and Coasts and Oceans of Life (2025). Since its launch, the festivals have reached close to one lakh students, educators and citizens across the country.
The Shillong edition brings together exhibits from all four festivals, highlighting the connections between ecosystems, biodiversity, livelihoods and climate change. It features over 300 panels of photographs, maps and stories drawn from the work of our young interns from across India, who have documented their experiences through photo essays and public art.
“Through art, dialogue and student research, we hope visitors will experience how deeply the rivers, forests, mountains, coasts and oceans shape every aspect of our lives – and why their conservation is not merely critical for our planet, but our very survival,” said Harini Nagendra, Director of School of Climate Change and Sustainability at Azim Premji University.
The festival will also include guided nature walks, expert talks, cultural performances and environmental film screenings, with support from NEHU student volunteers. A two-day teacher orientation and training programme will be held on October 8-9, focusing on nature, environmental science, climate science and science education.
“I am incredibly thrilled to welcome schools and colleges from Shillong and adjoining areas to NEHU for this festival; I truly believe that when our youth join hands, they become the driving force behind the urgent learning and action our nature and climate need today”, said Prof PK Ryngnga, Head of NEHU’s Department of Geography.
