Press Information Bureau

The 54th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) commenced on November 20, 2023, igniting the passion of cinephiles worldwide. This festival, tracing its roots back to 1952, has evolved into a beacon of cultural exchange within the global film community. IFFI serves more than just a celebration of films; it stands as evidence of cinema’s potency in nurturing global harmony.

A Platform for Global Exchange

IFFI orchestrates a cinematic extravaganza every year, drawing cinephiles from diverse corners of the world. IFFI's is accredited as a reputed Competition Feature Film Festival by the prestigious International Federation of Film Producers' Association (FIAPF), placing it among the exclusive league of 14 acclaimed festivals worldwide including Cannes, Venice, and Berlin. The festival's kick-off becomes a magnet for film enthusiasts, transcending borders and bringing together audiences passionate about diverse storytelling and cinematic artistry.

Embracing Global Cinema

54th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) celebrates the idea of "Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam," translating to 'the world is one family,' Through the universal language of cinema, it weaves together people, cultures, languages, and ideas into a cohesive mosaic.

It exemplifies unity through global storytelling. It goes beyond showcasing cinematic brilliance by championing the convergence of art and commerce within the vibrant Indian film industry.

This annual extravaganza has consistently been a hub for the finest works in both world and Indian cinema, attracting luminaries from India's film industry and global filmmakers.

IFFI celebrates unity through the collaborative spirit, serving as a platform for diverse voices to resonate worldwide.

 A Global Amalgamation

Segments like the 'Festival Kaleidoscope' and 'Cinema of the World' provide a canvas of diverse aesthetics and narratives.  In 'Festival Kaleidoscope,' IFFI showcases 19 distinguished films sourced from acclaimed festivals worldwide. The 'Cinema of the World' segment will unveil 103 films, providing a tapestry of diverse aesthetics and narratives. The festival doesn't merely entertain but educates, featuring insightful documentaries and celebrating the artistry of animation.

IFFI 2023 boasts of an astounding surge in submissions, totalling an impressive 2,962 entries from 105 countries. This staggering figure represents a threefold increase in international submissions compared to the previous year, underlining the festival's escalating international stature. IFFI promotes unity in diversity by featuring 198 international films, including 13 world premieres, 18 international premieres, and 62 Asia premieres, reflecting groundbreaking debuts and regional narratives under one umbrella.

This year's International Film Festival of India showcases a diverse lineup of films, events, people and stories from every corner of the world. The festival began with an International Drama/Thriller titled "Catching Dust,” directed by the British filmmaker Stuart Gatt. The mid-festival film will be the Indian premiere of the Turkish drama "About Dry Grasses". The event will close with an American biographical sports drama titled "The Feather Weight," offering a compelling finale to the cinematic extravaganza.

In essence, IFFI isn't just a celebration of cinema; it's a platform that transcends borders, languages, and cultures, promoting global unity through the universal language of cinema.

****

Nimish Rustagi/Himanshu Pathak/Ritu Kataria/ Madiha Iqbal    (IFFI Series #1)

(Features ID: 151710) 0