New Delhi: The 56th International Film Festival of India opened in Goa with a vibrant street parade, marking a striking departure from its traditional indoor ceremonies. For the first time, the festival began in the open streets, turning the city into a moving celebration of cinema, culture and creativity.
Goa Governor Pusapati Ashok Gajapathi Raju said, “IFFI has become a meaningful platform for creative exchange, new collaborations, and the celebration of cinematic excellence. With Goa’s cosmopolitan character, cultural richness, and global connectivity, it is natural that film lovers gather here in such large numbers.” He added that IFFI continues to serve as a space where ideas, stories and creative minds from across the world come together.
Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant spoke about the state’s rise as a filmmaking destination. “Goa stands ready with world-class infrastructure, and this is why it has become IFFI’s permanent home. Our scenic beauty draws filmmakers, but it is our strong policy reforms that keep them coming back,” he said. He noted that the theme “Convergence of Creativity and Technology” reflects India’s growing influence in the global creative economy and credited the Prime Minister’s leadership for the international visibility Indian cinema enjoys today.
Minister of State for Information and Broadcasting L. Murugan said this year’s format represents a shift from earlier editions. “Traditionally, the festival used to begin at the Shyama Prasad Mukherjee Stadium. This year, it begins as a grand cultural carnival, showcasing the diverse traditions of our states,” he said. He referred to the expanding Orange Economy and highlighted initiatives such as the WAVES summit for nurturing creative talent.
Information and Broadcasting Secretary Sanjay Jaju highlighted the scale of this year’s festival. He said, “For the first time, IFFI opens with a grand carnival celebrating India’s rich cultural heritage. This edition showcases the largest-ever collection of films, representing around 80 countries, along with numerous international and global premieres.” He also pointed to the AI Film Hackathon and the expanded WAVES Film Bazaar as key additions.
Legendary Telugu actor Nandamuri Balakrishna was felicitated for completing 50 years in cinema and for his contributions to the industry.
The grand parade featured more than two dozen floats, including 12 from the Goa government. The floats celebrated Indian cinema, animation and regional culture, drawing large crowds. Bharat Ek Soor, presented by the Central Bureau of Communication, was one of the major attractions, along with the NFDC tableau commemorating 50 years of work in nurturing filmmakers. Performances by over 100 artists added scale and colour to the event. Popular animated characters such as Chhota Bheem, Motu Patlu and Bittu Bahanebaaz also joined the procession, adding a playful charm to the celebration.
The festival opened with Gabriel Mascaro’s film The Blue Trail (O Último Azul), which received an enthusiastic response from audiences.
Founded in 1952, IFFI is South Asia’s oldest and largest international film festival. Jointly organised by the National Film Development Corporation, the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting and the Entertainment Society of Goa, the event brings together restored classics, contemporary cinema, global competitions, cultural showcases and masterclasses. The 56th edition, running from 20 to 28 November, promises a wide range of cinematic voices, genres and innovations set against the backdrop of Goa’s coastline.
BI Bureau
