NEW DELHI: The 55th edition of the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) officially kicks off amidst the picturesque landscapes of Goa, marking the start of a vibrant nine-day celebration of global cinema. The festival, which brings together filmmakers, cinephiles, and artists from around the world, commenced with a colorful cultural program that highlighted India’s rich diversity and creative spirit.
The opening ceremony, hosted by popular film personalities Abhishek Banerjee and Bhumi Pednekar, was a star-studded event, attended by several luminaries of the Indian film industry. Iconic figures such as Subhash Ghai, Boman Irani, Jaideep Ahlawat, Jayam Ravi, Randeep Hooda, Rakul Preet Singh, and Rajkummar Rao were among those honoured for their immense contributions to cinema.
The ceremonial inauguration included the traditional watering of a coconut sapling by Goa’s Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant, symbolizing growth and prosperity, in the presence of dignitaries like Rajya Sabha MP Shri Sadanand Shet Tanavade, Secretary of Information & Broadcasting Shri Sanjay Jaju, Festival Director Shri Shekhar Kapur, and renowned spiritual leader Sri Sri Ravi Shankar.
In his speech, Chief Minister Dr. Sawant expressed the strong bond between Goa and IFFI. He said, “When you think of IFFI, you remember Goa, and when you think of Goa, you remember IFFI.” He extended a warm welcome to the festival delegates, emphasizing Goa’s unique role as a host to one of the world’s most prestigious film festivals.
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Union Minister of Information and Broadcasting Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw also conveyed his message through a video, highlighting IFFI’s significant role in the development of the Indian film industry. He praised the rapid growth of the content creators’ economy in India, driven by innovation and the integration of technology. “India can play a major role in shaping the creators’ economy,” he remarked, emphasizing the potential for global partnerships and fresh ideas emerging from IFFI.
Union Minister of State for Information and Broadcasting, Dr. L. Murugan spoke about the government’s efforts to promote Indian cinema, including initiatives to curb film piracy and simplify the process for filmmakers through a single-window clearance system. He also announced that this year’s Satyajit Ray Lifetime Achievement Award would be presented to renowned Australian filmmaker Phillip Noyce.
Spiritual guru Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, who was also present, shared his thoughts on the storytelling aspect of life, emphasizing that every life is like a film. He noted that Indian mythology connects gods with various forms of entertainment, symbolizing the cultural synergy between spirituality and the arts.
A special highlight of the opening ceremony was the unveiling of a special stamp honoring four legends of Indian cinema, Raj Kapoor, Tapan Sinha, Akkineni Nageswara Rao, and Mohammed Rafi. The stamp, which was a tribute to these iconic figures, was unveiled by Shri Sanjay Jaju, Secretary of Information & Broadcasting, alongside other dignitaries, including the family members of the legends.
The opening day of IFFI set the stage for an exciting and memorable festival, which will feature screenings, workshops, and discussions, celebrating the rich legacy of Indian cinema while embracing global filmmaking talent.