Goa, 24 November 2023

Ten films from across the globe nominated and competing for the prestigious ICFT – UNESCO Gandhi Medal at the 54^th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) are being screened at the various festival venues. The ICFT-UNESCO Gandhi Medal category encapsulates the timeless ideals of Mahatma Gandhi, endorsed by UNESCO, echoing Gandhi’s philosophy, and advocacy for a world rooted in harmony, understanding, and peace.

These cinematic masterpieces, shortlisted for the competition, stand out as beacons, realigning our consciousness towards the principles of peace, tolerance, non-violence, and compassion, especially in a world besieged by conflict and chaos.

This year, ten notable movies from diverse corners of the world compete for this award:

1. ‘A House in Jerusalem’ by Muayad Alayan (Palestine, UK, Germany, Netherlands, Qatar, 2022).

The film explores the complexities of human relationships against the backdrop of conflicting cultures and beliefs in Jerusalem. The film delves into the struggles and aspirations of individuals amidst the city's historical and political tensions.

2. ‘Citizen Saint’ by Tinatin Kajrishvili (Georgia, 2023).

Set in Georgia, this film navigates the life of an individual striving to uphold moral integrity amidst societal challenges. It offers a poignant portrayal of personal sacrifice and the quest for righteousness.

3. ‘Drift’ by Anthony Chen (UK, France, Greece, 2023).

A narrative intertwining lives across different countries, exploring themes of identity, belonging, and the human quest for connection. The film portrays how drifting through life's uncertainties can lead to unexpected bonds.

4. “It’s Sira” by Apolline Traoré (France, Germany, Senegal, 2023).

Through a multi-cultural lens, this film unfolds a tale of resilience, highlighting the shared human experiences that transcend geographical and cultural boundaries.

5. ‘Kalev’ by Ove Musting (Estonia, 2022). 

Set in Estonia, this film intricately weaves a story steeped in the country's cultural essence. It portrays personal journeys entwined with national history, reflecting on the intertwined fabric of individual and collective identities.

6. ‘The Prize’ by Paul Fauzan Agusta (Indonesia, 2022).

A narrative from Indonesia, diving into the complexities of ambition and the pursuit of success. The film probes the moral dilemmas individuals face in their quest for recognition and achievement.

7. ‘The Sugar Experiment’ by John Tornblad (Sweden, 2022).

Set in Sweden, this film sheds light on societal norms and individual choices. It explores how personal experiments with societal constructs can challenge established paradigms.

8. ‘Mandali’ by Rakesh Chaturvadi Om (India, 2023). 

Rooted in India, this film traverses the landscapes of friendship, loyalty, and personal growth.It encapsulates the transformative power of relationships and the journeys they catalyze.

9. ‘Malikapuram’ by Vishnu Sasi Shankar (India, 2022). 

Set in the cultural milieu of Kerala, India, this film depicts the intricacies of relationships amidst societal expectations. It navigates the emotional terrain of human connections and the conflicts that arise within them.

10. ‘Rabindra Kabya Rahasya’ by Sayantan Ghosan (India, 2023).

Set against the backdrop of Bengal, India, the film encapsulates the essence of Rabindranath Tagore's poetry, unraveling the mysteries inherent in human emotions and relationships.

These cinematic gems promise to captivate audiences, profoundly reinforcing the significance of "Peace" in our world to inspire collective actions, nurturing a better world and celebrating the essence of humanity.

Established by ICFT Paris and UNESCO, the Gandhi Medal is a yearly tribute presented at IFFI to a film that best mirrors Mahatma Gandhi's vision of peace and non-violence. Since its inception in 1994, this award has celebrated films embodying these enduring values.

* * *

PIB Team IFFI | Rajith/ Nikita/ Meghana/Naseer/Darshana | IFFI 54 - 046