PANAJI
M adhya Pradesh made a strong cultural statement at the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in Goa with the premiere of two films deeply linked to India’s heritage. The state delegation, led by Additional Chief Secretary for Tourism, Culture and Home, Sheo Shekhar Shukla, highlighted Madhya Pradesh’s growing role as a hub for culturally rooted cinema and film production.
The National Film Development Corporation of India (NFDC) hosted special screenings of The Sitarist and Lokmata Ahilyabai, both produced with the support of the Madhya Pradesh government. The event began with a formal welcome and the introduction of the panel, during which NFDC presented mementos to Shukla and Naresh Khetrapal of SPAN Communications for their contributions to the films.
Speaking at the event, Khetrapal described The Sitarist as “an intimate portrait of an artist completely immersed in her craft.” The film follows a sitar player driven by inner discipline rather than fame, set against the natural landscapes of Madhya Pradesh, including forests, lakes, hilltops and rural communities. The visuals and narrative aimed to showcase the state’s potential as a diverse filming destination.
Director Dimple Dugar also received a memento for her animated film Lokmata Ahilya Bai Holkar. She said the film pays tribute to “one of India’s greatest female leaders,” encouraging viewers to connect with Ahilya Bai Holkar’s values of justice, empathy and public service. The film highlighted her role in temple restoration, infrastructure development and social reform, reinforcing her legacy as “Lokmata.”
