Mumbai, 20 June 2024

The 18th Mumbai International Film Festival (MIFF) showcased a special package of four Belarusian films, highlighting the significance of cultural exchange and strengthening bilateral relations between India and Belarus. Addressing a press conference on the sidelines of MIFF 2024, Yuri Aleksei, Director General of the National Film Studio ‘Belarusfilm’ of the Republic of Belarus, expressed his happiness and appreciation for the platform provided by MIFF. Also present was Aliaksandr Matsukou, Consul General of the Republic of Belarus in Mumbai, who echoed similar sentiments.

Yuri Aleksei emphasized the importance of film festivals like MIFF in fostering international cooperation and understanding. "I am very happy that 4 Belarusian films have been screened as a special package in the 18th Mumbai International Film Festival. Platforms like MIFF are instrumental in strengthening bilateral relations between countries," he stated.

Yuri Aleksei announced that ‘Belarusfilm’ studio will be celebrating its 100th anniversary this year. To commemorate this milestone, a film festival named ‘Listapad’, meaning ‘the holy age’, will be organized in Minsk, the capital of Belarus, in November 2024. The festival will feature films from six different genres, including documentaries, short films, animation, and drama. "I would like to invite Indian cinephiles to this film festival," he added.

Aliaksandr Matsukou highlighted the significance of MIFF in promoting Belarusian films and talent. "We visited MIFF to showcase Belarusian films. As Mumbai is the centre of Indian Cinema, we have a great opportunity to present Belarusian talent to the world," he said. He further reminisced about the first Indian movie released in Belarus, ‘Disco Dancer’, starring Mithun Chakravarthy, and mentioned the growing popularity of Indian films in Belarus. "People in Belarus enjoy the dance, music, and drama depicted in Indian cinema," he noted.

Extending an invitation to Indian filmmakers, Matsukou spoke about the scenic beauty of Belarus and its potential as a filming destination. "Belarus is a beautiful country for film-shooting. We are working on ways to facilitate Indian filmmakers and look forward to collaborating with them," he concluded.

The press conference underscored the mutual enthusiasm for cultural exchange and the role of cinema in bridging cultural gaps, paving the way for future collaborations between Indian and Belarusian filmmakers.

* * *

PIB Team MIFF | Gautam/ Harshal/ Darshana | 54

Follow us on social media:@PIBMumbai    /PIBMumbai    /pibmumbai  pibmumbai[at]gmail[dot]com  /PIBMumbai    /pibmumbai