Pune Bal Mahotsav Returns: Four-Day Festival From December 11 Promotes ‘Less Screen, More Play’ for Children and Parents
Pune Bal Mahotsav Returns: Four-Day Festival From December 11 Promotes ‘Less Screen, More Play’ for Children and Parents
Pune, December 9, 2025: The Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has announced the fourth edition of the Pune Bal Mahotsav, scheduled from December 11 to 14, 2025, at Sarasbaug. Over the years, the festival has become a much-loved event for parents and young children, drawing more than one lakh visitors annually.
This year’s theme — “Less Screen, More Play” — focuses on the often-neglected aspect of parental health and well-being, highlighting its crucial role in child development. The festival aims to create awareness about the importance of early childhood care while encouraging parents to care for themselves as they raise their children.
Experts note that the first five years of a child’s life are critical for cognitive, social, and motor development. The annual festival serves as a platform to share knowledge, promote healthy parenting practices, and offer families new ways to support children’s growth.
More than 30 organisations and partners working in early childhood development will participate this year, offering interactive games, play-based activities, storytelling sessions, hands-on discussions, and family bonding experiences. The event promises to deliver a vibrant and engaging atmosphere for children and parents alike.
In a rapidly growing city like Pune, where both children and parents are navigating the pressures of the digital age, the festival’s message is increasingly relevant. This year, a dedicated Care Pavilion will help parents reflect on their own well-being and explore ways to improve self-care, empowering them to become better caregivers.
Pune is also recognised as a ‘Deep Dive City’ under the Nurturing Neighbourhoods 2.0 initiative and as an Urban95 Lighthouse City. Supported by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, the Van Leer Foundation, and WRI India, the initiative aims to integrate child- and parent-friendly planning into urban development. Pune has already conducted neighbourhood events encouraging outdoor family interactions and continues to weave such activities into city life.
At a time when children spend more hours indoors and parents juggle busy routines, the Pune Bal Mahotsav underscores the need for active, screen-free engagement and positive parenting. By bringing together families, experts, and child-focused organisations, the festival continues its mission to create a healthier, happier beginning for the city’s youngest residents.
Residents are invited to participate in the festival from December 11 to 14 at Sarasbaug.
