HDFC Mutual Fund spotlights ‘Barni Se Azadi’ at Magh Mela through new films

New Delhi: HDFC Mutual Fund has released two investor education films documenting its on-ground initiatives at the 2026 Magh Mela in Prayagraj, as part of its Investor Education and Awareness Initiative.

The films focus on the ‘Barni Se Azadi’ activation and a Diya Floating activity conducted during the religious gathering. According to the fund house, the initiatives were designed to encourage conversations around moving beyond traditional household savings practices towards informed, long-term investing.

The first film documents the ‘Barni Se Azadi’ installation at the Magh Mela. The activation featured a large “Barni” installation symbolising conventional savings habits. Visitors were invited to select a personal aspiration through a digital interface. Each selection triggered a visual representation of a cloud rising into the sky, intended to depict dreams being set free and the beginning of a financial journey.

The film captures interactions at the site, including responses from visitors engaging with the installation. The backdrop of the Magh Mela, one of India’s largest religious congregations, forms a central visual element in the narrative.

The second film centres on the Diya Floating activity organised on the occasion of Maghi Purnima. Participants floated diyas carrying written aspirations such as owning a home, purchasing a vehicle or supporting a child’s education. After completing the ritual, a message was revealed on the ceremonial plate: “Nitya Nivesh Karoon. Swapna Satya Karoon.”

The on-ground campaign was conducted from January 12 to February 15, 2026, coinciding with peak footfall at the Magh Mela. Activities included the Barni installation, nukkad nataks across multiple locations within the Mela premises, an AI-enabled photo booth and the Diya Floating engagement.

HDFC Mutual Fund stated that the initiative formed part of its broader investor education outreach efforts, using large public gatherings and culturally rooted settings to communicate financial awareness messages.