PANAJI
The 56th edition of the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) opened in Panaji on Thursday evening with a dazzling celebration that combined cinema with Goan flavour -- a Carnival–Shigmo hybrid parade along DB Marg -- filling the streets with colour, music, and dance as delegates, dignitaries, and film enthusiasts gathered for the inaugural ceremony.
Chief Minister Pramod Sawant, inaugurating the festival at the Old GMC precinct, declared the State’s ambition to transform into an international film production hub.
“Goa is not just a place, it is an experience. We want to make Goa the creativity capital of the country,” he said, announcing plans to revive the film promotion scheme to support producers and strengthen the State’s appeal as a global destination for filmmaking.
Sawant highlighted Goa’s natural beauty, robust infrastructure, and tourism ecosystem as key attractions for filmmakers. He pointed to quick licensing processes, single-window initiatives, and schemes for producers as factors that have already given Goa a leg-up in international film production.
“We want international filmmakers to choose Goa for its natural beauty, work enjoyment, and good government support,” he added, stressing that IFFI and the Film Bazaar have been instrumental in positioning the State on the global cinematic map.
Union Minister of State for Information and Broadcasting L Murugan echoed the sentiment, describing IFFI as a platform to collectively advance the Indian film industry.
“Through IFFI, opportunities are being given to content, creativity, and culture, which are the pillars of the Orange Economy,” he said.
The ceremony was attended by Governor Ashok Gajapathi Raju, Union Minister Shripad Naik and Festival Director Shekhar Kapur, besides a galaxy of film personalities.
Veteran Telugu actor N Balakrishnan was honoured for his 50 years of contribution to cinema, receiving warm applause as he thanked his family and audiences for their support.
Actor Anupam Kher, addressing the gathering, said IFFI holds a special place in the hearts of Goans, praising the cultural parade that ignited the ceremony.
“The chariot procession won the hearts of the attendees,” he remarked.
The Chief Minister also underlined that making IFFI a success is a collective effort involving local dignitaries, artists, the hospitality sector, and cultural institutions.
Under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, Sawant said, India is emerging as a “soft power hub,” with IFFI providing an international platform for Indian artists and producers.
As the parade wound its way through the city, the opening night captured both the festive spirit of Goa and the aspirations of Indian cinema. With screenings, discussions, and cultural showcases lined up, the 56th IFFI promises to be a celebration of creativity, diversity, and global cinematic exchange.
