Mumbai, February 2, 2025

The National Museum of Indian Cinema (NMIC), under the National Film Development Corporation (NFDC), successfully inaugurated the 5th edition of the NFDC and Country Film Festival with the Sri Lanka and NFDC Film Festival on 1st February, 2025. This five-day cinematic and cultural exchange, running from February 1^st to 5^th, 2025, celebrates the storytelling traditions of India and Sri Lanka.

The festival began with a museum tour, followed by opening remarks from Ms. Jayita Ghosh, Manager, NMIC-NFDC, who highlighted the significance of cross-cultural collaborations through cinema. During the event, Mr. D. Ramakrishnan, General Manager of NFDC, felicitated Mr. Buddhika Hewawasam, Chairman of the Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau, and Ms. Shirani Ariyarathne, Acting Consulate General of Sri Lanka. In a gesture of appreciation, the Sri Lankan delegation also honored NFDC for its continued support in strengthening cinematic ties between the two nations.

The chief guest, acclaimed actress Taranjit Kaur, was honored by Mr. Hewawasam during the event. Known for her standout role in Raju, a Student Academy Award-winning short film, as well as her performances in Ankhon Dekhi and Airlift, Taranjit expressed her gratitude and delight at being part of such a significant cultural exchange.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Ramakrishnan highlighted, “festivals like these serve as a bridge between creativity and culture, with cinema being the most powerful medium to unite nations.” Mr. Hewawasam echoed his sentiments, expressing his enthusiasm for future collaborations and the ongoing strengthening of ties through cinema.

The event continued with the unveiling of the festival promo and teaser, followed by a captivating Sri Lankan cultural performance by K.O. Dancing Academy, led by internationally acclaimed traditional dancer Mr. Karunadasa Olabodua. The evening concluded with a delectable Sri Lankan cuisine experience, courtesy of the Acting Consulate General of Sri Lanka. The festival will continue to run from February 2nd to 5th at NMIC Auditorium 2, NFDC Premises, Mumbai, featuring a curated selection of celebrated films from Sri Lanka and India.

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