MARGAO
The 3rd edition of the Bulbul Children’s International Film Festival (BCIFF) will be held from January 13 to 17, 2026, at Ravindra Bhavan, Margao. PWD Minister Digambar Kamat said the government supports programmes that promote children’s films, culture and education.
Speaking to the media with senior officials and festival directors Bipin Khedekar and Siddhesh Naik, Kamat said the festival will feature more than 73 Indian and international films from over 38 countries. Around 35,000 to 40,000 children, parents, teachers and visitors are expected, with strong participation from schools in Goa and nearby areas.
The festival will screen international and Indian children’s films, animated films, animal-themed films, sports films, Goan films, and films on parenting and family relationships. Several titles will have their Indian and Asian premieres. The international jury includes Franziska Schönenberger (Germany), Dylan Mohan Gray (India/Canada), Sushant Shrestha (Nepal), Soumitra Ranade (India), Geert Neckebroeck and Hilde Steenssens (Belgium), Archana Atul Phadke and Salmin Sheriff (India).
The main theme this year is “Animals and Nature”, aimed at building environmental awareness among children.
The opening ceremony on January 13 at 5 pm will feature filmmaker Nagraj Manjule, followed by the film April May 99. The closing on January 17 will include a screening of Tanvi The Great by Anupam Kher and a Goan fusion music show.
