Mumbai, Nov 7 (IANS) The 1st Mumbai International Children's Film Festival (MICFF) began here Saturday with a special screening of Megan Mylan's Oscar winning documentary 'Smile Pinki'.

'I am one of the jury members of MICFF and it is wonderful to see my film getting screened as well,' Megan told IANS.

The special screening of 'Smile Pinki' was attended by 350 students.

Another film 'Aansoo Bane Moti' which has been made by the children of Pali Chimbai Municipal School and Santa Cruz School where writer Amol Gupte teaches will also be screened at the festival.

'Our society typically slots the financially challenged for menial or vocational jobs. My interaction with the children of Pali Chimbai Municipal School and Santa Cruz School made me realize the immense talent they possess. They therefore must be given opportunities for careers that will exercise their latent talent. This film is the result of their effort,' Gupte said.

The festival has two main awards - a cash prize of Rs.100,000 for Best Children's Feature Film and a cash prize of Rs.25,000 for Best Animation film.

The festival will culminate Nov 12.