The 55th International Film Festival of India to kick-off in Goa
The 55th International Film Festival of India to kick-off in Goa
The 55th International Film Festival of India ( IFFI) is to kick-off in Panaji, Goa from November 20-28.
This once again will transform the coastal city into a global center of cinematic celebration.
From seasoned filmmakers to aspiring talent, the festival witnesses film enthusiasts from all over the world, providing a unique platform for appreciating diverse stories and cultures through cinema.
This year’s festival ensures a range of activities, including screenings, workshops, and networking events, fostering a space for cultural exchange and artistic expression.
IFFI is a Pillar of India’s Cinematic Growth
Established in 1952, IFFI has emerged as one of Asia’s foremost film festivals, evolving into a global hub for filmmakers and cinephiles. IFFI has grown in stature over the years, reflecting India’s rising role in international cinema and contributing to its positioning as a major content creation center worldwide.
The 2024 edition highlights India’s diverse cinematic traditions while emphasizing inclusivity, accessibility, and the power of film as a tool for societal connection.
The 55th IFFI offers an films spanning multiple genres, cultures, and languages. This year’s lineup includes over
16 curated segments, ensuring a rich cinematic experience for every attendee. IFFI’s prestigious
International Cinema section showcases celebrated films from across the globe, while Indian Panorama features 25 Indian Feature Films and 20 Non-Feature Films, selected from hundreds of entries.
The Indian Panorama will open with the Hindi film Swatantrya Veer Savarkar by Randeep Hooda, while the Non-Feature Films segment will commence with the Ladakhi film Ghar Jaisa Kuch by Harsh Sangani, celebrating both emerging and established Indian filmmakers.
It is for the first time that the IFFI introduces Award for Emerging Talent
For the first time, IFFI introduces the Best Debut Director of Indian Feature Film award, highlighting emerging voices in Indian cinema. Five debut directors will be honored, bringing fresh regional perspectives to the national stage. Notable entries include Boong (Manipuri) by Lakshmipriya Devi, Gharat Ganpati (Marathi) by Navjyot Bandiwadekar, Mikka Bannada Hakki (Kannada) by Manohara K, Razakar (Telugu) by Yata Satyanarayana, and Thanupp (Malayalam) by Ragesh Narayanan. These films capture the unique cultural narratives from various parts of India, reinforcing IFFI’s commitment to showcasing regional diversity.
Paying Tribute to Indian Film Legends
IFFI 2024 also commemorates the centenaries of four iconic figures in Indian cinema: actor Raj Kapoor, director Tapan Sinha, Telugu film legend Akkineni Nageswara Rao (ANR), and singer Mohammed Rafi. Restored versions of their classics will be screened at the festival, offering new audiences a chance to experience the cinematic brilliance of these icons. Special presentations and audio-visual tributes during the opening ceremony will further highlight their contributions to Indian cinema.
Each year IFFI Showcases Australian Cinema and dedicates a segment to a selected nation’s cinema, and this year, Australia takes the spotlight. Seven Australian films across various genres will be featured, reflecting the country’s rich cultural heritage, indigenous stories, and contemporary narratives. This focus aligns with the Audio-Visual Co-Production Treaty amid India and Australia, enhancing collaboration between the two nations and promoting cross-cultural cinematic exchanges.
In addition to film screenings, IFFI offers a plethora of events designed to enrich attendees’ understanding of filmmaking. Masterclasses, workshops, and panel discussions allow delegates to interact with industry veterans, gain insights into the craft, and explore trends shaping global cinema.
The festival will also bring back popular segments such as Creative Minds of Tomorrow, Film Bazaar, and Cine Mela, making IFFI a one-stop destination for aspiring filmmakers. The IFFI Red Carpet event will once again bring the glitz and glamour of the industry to Goa, creating an enchanting atmosphere where attendees can mingle with actors, directors, and other creatives.
This year, IFFI takes a strong stance on inclusivity. In line with India’s commitment to creating accessible public spaces, the festival venues are equipped with ramps, handrails, tactile pathways, Braille signage, and dedicated parking for persons with disabilities. These features ensure that everyone, regardless of ability, can participate in the celebration of cinema, underscoring IFFI’s commitment to inclusivity.
IFFI has long served as a bridge between cultures, connecting audiences with filmmakers and celebrating the universal language of cinema. Since 2004, Goa has been the festival’s permanent home, selected for its open spirit and scenic appeal. Organized by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting in collaboration with the Entertainment Society of Goa, IFFI has earned global recognition, with accreditation from the International Federation of Film Producers’ Associations (FIAPF).
In recent years, the National Film Development Corporation (NFDC) has taken over the festival’s organization, furthering its mission of cultural connection and innovation. The festival fosters a space where audiences, filmmakers, and industry professionals can exchange ideas, paving the way for new collaborations and creative growth.
The 55th IFFI celebrates the transformative power of cinema, inviting people from diverse backgrounds to immerse themselves in stories that . tribute to iconic figures, support for emerging voices, and commitment to inclusivity, this year’s festival embodies the true spirit of cinema as a medium for connection and cultural appreciation. As Goa once again becomes the center of cinematic celebration, IFFI continues its legacy of uniting storytellers and audiences, championing the art of film in all its vibrant diversity.
News Edit KV Raman
