Through the city of Bengaluru and its water systems, the forum invited various professionals and experts from the social sector to talk about how water is accessed, how it invokes different meanings (or roles) in different livelihoods, and how it behaves as a shared resource in a city and its outskirts. 

Participants questioned where our water comes from and identified challenges like decentralised water systems, bureaucratic hurdles, and social disparities like caste discrimination in creating equal provision of water to all. They highlighted the importance of citizen action and community mobilization to navigate the complexities of the bureaucratic system, even in the absence of an appropriate response. Additionally, the role of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) was dissected as a catalyst for action. While they provide funding, manpower, and visibility for initiatives like this, they cannot guarantee or replace long-term government responsibility. 

Another concern raised was that efforts to improve water resources and infrastructure in underdeveloped areas can sometimes produce unintended consequences. As these areas become more desirable, they may attract wealthier corporations and investors, potentially displacing existing, often low-income communities. This points to a broader concern around the intent and impact of social responsibility: initiatives designed to improve a community’s quality of life can, in some cases, contribute to the displacement of the very communities they seek to benefit.

Through this forum, the issues with the development of water systems, how it reveals hidden class segregation, and investment with gentrifying intent in underdeveloped areas were decoded in open discussion. The professionals also identified the ability of films to build powerful narratives, highlight social aspects like class segregation in larger issues like water access, and the power to inspire action for better water practices.