#IFFIWood, 20 नोव्‍हेंबर 2025

Step into the streets. Feel the rhythm. See the stories unfold. IFFI transforms Goa into a living, breathing reel of wonder! For the first time in its distinguished journey, the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) stepped beyond the walls of tradition into the vibrant heart of Goa—embracing its people, streets and spirit in a celebration like never before.

In a bold reimagining of its grand opening today, IFFI 2025 transformed the city into a vast, living canvas—where cinematic brilliance mingled with cultural splendour and the ageless magic of storytelling danced through the streets of Goa. As artists, performers and cinephiles filled the boulevards with energy and entertainment, Goa transformed into a pulsating corridor of creativity—signalling not just the beginning of a festival, but the dawn of a bold new chapter in IFFI’s legacy.

Inaugurating the celebrations, Governor of Goa, Shri Pusapati Ashok Gajapathi Raju, lauded IFFI’s growing global stature, saying, “IFFI has become a meaningful platform for creative exchange, new collaborations, and the celebration of cinematic excellence. With Goa’s cosmopolitan character, cultural richness, and global connectivity, it is natural that film lovers gather here in such large numbers.”

He emphasised that IFFI has always transcended the boundaries of a conventional film festival—serving as a meeting ground for ideas, stories, and creative minds from across the world, supporting young filmmakers, honouring cinematic brilliance, and strengthening India’s position as a global hub of film and creative industries.

Chief Minister of Goa, Dr. Pramod Sawant in his address highlighted Goa’s rise as an international filmmaking destination. “Goa stands ready with world-class infrastructure, and this is why it has become IFFI’s permanent home. Our scenic beauty draws filmmakers, but it is our strong policy reforms that keep them coming back”, he remarked. He noted that IFFI 2025 celebrates the theme “Convergence of Creativity and Technology”, reflecting India’s leadership in the global creative revolution. “IFFI bridges Indian talent with global possibilities. Our dream is to make Goa the Creative Capital of India. Come to Goa, tell your stories, shoot your films.” He credited Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s vision for propelling Indian cinema to unprecedented international prominence, making India a rising soft power in the world of storytelling.

🌊Goa has always believed in celebrating creativity, and today, Goa once again celebrates cinema, the most powerful form of storytelling in the world 🎥

People often ask, ‘Why Goa?’ Let me tell you why #IFFI has flourished here for two decades. The answer is simple: Goa offers… pic.twitter.com/bw414n9z1B

— PIB in Goa 🇮🇳 (@PIB_Panaji) November 20, 2025

Addressing the gathering, Union Minister of State for Information and Broadcasting, Dr. L. Murugan, said that IFFI continues to evolve with every edition. “Traditionally, the festival used to begin at the Shyama Prasad Mukherjee Stadium. This year, it begins as a grand cultural carnival, showcasing the diverse traditions of our states.” He recalled the Prime Minister’s vision of India’s growing Orange Economy, powered by Content, Creativity, and Culture. Initiatives such as the World Audio Visual & Entertainment Summit (WAVES), held in Mumbai, he noted, are empowering emerging creative talent across the country. He also paid tribute to the late Shri Manohar Parrikar for his pivotal role in establishing Goa as IFFI’s permanent home.

Every year, #IFFI takes on a new dimension. Last year, the Opening Ceremony was held at the Shyama Prasad Mukherjee Stadium and this year, we are proud to introduce a grand Opening Parade, showcasing cultural exhibits from various states, Goa’s 12 talukas, their rich traditions,… pic.twitter.com/kdVJvQGhVS

— PIB in Goa 🇮🇳 (@PIB_Panaji) November 20, 2025

Secretary, Ministry of Information & Broadcasting, Shri Sanjay Jaju, highlighted the unique features of this year’s edition. “For the first time, IFFI opens with a grand carnival celebrating India’s rich cultural heritage. This edition showcases the largest-ever collection of films—representing around 80 countries—along with numerous international and global premieres,” he flagged. He underscored new additions such as the AI Film Hackathon and the largest-ever WAVES Film Bazaar, positioning IFFI at the forefront of creativity, technology, and industry innovation.

🎥The grand opening of IFFI is being presented for the first time ever as a vibrant carnival. This year, the festival brings several exciting firsts: the largest collection of films from nearly 80 countries, featuring both global and national premieres, along with a strong slate… pic.twitter.com/n3NzsJU2BF

— PIB in Goa 🇮🇳 (@PIB_Panaji) November 20, 2025

Legendary actor Nandamuri Balakrishna was honoured for his 50 glorious years in Cinema and his remarkable contributions in enriching the Telugu cinema.

Legendary actor Nandamuri Balakrishna honoured at the #IFFI Grand Parade for his outstanding contribution to Indian cinema.🎬🎥

With unforgettable mass roles, commanding screen presence, and decades of impactful performances, he remains one of Telugu cinema’s most influential… pic.twitter.com/fcnvOAUWtY

— PIB in Goa 🇮🇳 (@PIB_Panaji) November 20, 2025

The Historic Grand Parade

More than two dozen floats—including 12 presented by the Goa government—celebrated India’s cinematic heritage, the world of animation, and the rich diversity of regional cultures. Major highlights of the event were the grand folk production Bharat Ek Soor, presented by the Central Bureau of Communication and NFDC 50 Years’ Tableau, honouring five decades of nurturing filmmakers and fostering cinematic innovation across the nation. Featuring over 100 artists performing traditional dances, the production captivated audiences with its scale and energy.

Adding to the excitement was the appearance of beloved animated characters such as Chhota Bheem, Motu Patlu, and Bittu Bahanebaaz, whose lively interactions drew enthusiastic cheers from spectators. The parade set a vibrant and festive tone for the days of cinematic celebration ahead.

The Opening Film

Gabriel Mascaro’s dystopian tale The Blue Trail, known in its native Portuguese as ‘O Último Azul’, has ignited the first spark today of the 56th International Film Festival of India (IFFI), marking the unfolding in the coastal sway of Goa. The opening film has been embraced widely stirring admiration and wonder alike.

About IFFI

Born in 1952, the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) stands tall as South Asia’s oldest and largest celebration of cinema. Jointly hosted by the National Film Development Corporation (NFDC), Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Government of India and the Entertainment Society of Goa (ESG), State Government of Goa, the festival has grown into a global cinematic powerhouse—where restored classics meet bold experiments, and legendary maestros share space with fearless first-timers. What makes IFFI truly sparkle is its electric mix—international competitions, cultural showcases, masterclasses, tributes, and the high-energy WAVES Film Bazaar, where ideas, deals and collaborations take flight. Staged against Goa’s stunning coastal backdrop from November 20–28, the 56th edition promises a dazzling spectrum of languages, genres, innovations, and voices—an immersive celebration of India’s creative brilliance on the world stage.

For more information, Click on:

https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2191742

https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2190381

IFFI Website: https://www.iffigoa.org/

 PIB’s IFFI Microsite: https://www.pib.gov.in/iffi/56new/

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PIB IFFI CAST AND CREW | Ritu Shukla/Swadhin Shaktiprasad/Darshana Rane | IFFI 56 - 019