Daijiworld Media Network - Panaji
Panaji, Nov 21: The 56th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) kicked off on Thursday evening in Goa with a spectacular street parade, marking the first time the festival opened with such a colourful public display. The parade featured folk dances from across the country, including Chau from Odisha, Jharkhand, and West Bengal, Dhamal from Haryana, Romtamel from Goa, and Bhiu from Assam.
The procession moved along D B Marg, from the Old GMC complex to Kala Academy, drawing enthusiastic crowds of all ages. Governor Pusapati Ashok Gajapathi Raju welcomed the initiative, saying it brought the festival closer to the people in a refreshing new format.
The parade also featured 12 floats depicting Goan village life and its film culture, while several production houses, including from Tollywood, used the platform to promote upcoming films.
Chief Minister Pramod Sawant highlighted Goa’s scenic beauty and thriving tourism and hospitality sector as reasons why the state is an ideal permanent venue for IFFI. “On this occasion, we are showcasing floats made for Goa’s Shigmo and Carnival parade on an international platform. Goa is not just a venue; it is an experience and a partner in your creativity,” said Sawant. He also announced that the state government is creating a structured incentive model to attract more filmmakers to shoot in Goa.
Telugu film star N Balakrishna was felicitated for completing 50 years in cinema. Festival director Shekhar Kapur, filmmaker Muzaffar Ali, and actors Anupam Kher and Jackie Shroff were among the dignitaries present at the opening ceremony.
The governor paid tribute to former Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar, who had brought IFFI to Goa in 2004, making the state its permanent venue. “Given Goa’s cosmopolitan character, cultural richness, and excellent global connectivity, film lovers look forward to IFFI every year,” he said.
I&B Secretary Sanjay Jaju noted that IFFI 2025 will feature several firsts, including the largest collection of films from 80 countries.
The festival promises a unique blend of cinema, culture, and creativity, cementing Goa’s status as a global hub for film enthusiasts.