On Friday, a day before Dharmendra Pradhan, Union Education Minister, sent his resignation letter to Narendra Modi, Prime Minister, the atmosphere at Shivaji Park buzzed with energy.
Despite a heavy police presence around the venue, crowds poured in from all directions, clutching placards and backpacks, determined to make the government hear them. Blending into the crowd were actors Atul Kulkarni, Kritika Kamra, Manav Kaul, Geetanjali Kulkarni, and Makarand Deshpande, along with filmmakers Navjot Gulati and Hardik Mehta.
Kritika Kamra, Atul Kulkarni and Navjot Gulati
“The energy was beautiful and the young people of this country have shown how a protest is done,” shared Kamra, reflecting on how well-organised the movement had been. “It felt safe and everyone was united. It was crowded but everyone was prepared. People were kind, helpful, and willing to cooperate. Young people were giving away tricolour wristbands [to everyone].” Kaul, who distributed water bottles to protesters, shared, “This is the time to let the young people’s loud and clear voices be heard.”
As students began dispersing, several people spotted Atul folding his hands and thanking the police personnel for doing their duty throughout the day. Students joined him and applauded the officers, blurring the line between the police and the protesters.