#IFFIWood, 27 November 2025

The International Film Festival of India (IFFI) today celebrated the birth centenary of legendary Goan cinematographer Shri K. Vaikunth, honouring his extraordinary contribution to Indian cinema with the release of a commemorative postal stamp.

Known for his masterful cinematography across several landmark feature films and documentaries including celebrated works for the Films Division—Shri Vaikunth is remembered as one of India’s finest visual storytellers whose legacy continues to inspire generations of filmmakers.

The commemorative postal stamp was formally released by the Chief Minister of Goa, Dr. Pramod Sawant, in the presence of Shri Deepak Narain, Additional Secretary & Financial Advisor, Ministry of Information & Broadcasting, Shri Prabhat, Additional Secretary, Ministry of Information & Broadcasting, Shri Amitabh Singh, Chief Postmaster General, Maharashtra & Goa and Shri Amit Kunkolienkar, son of Shri K. Vaikunth, along with his family members.

Addressing the gathering, Dr. Sawant celebrated Shri Vaikunth’s lifelong dedication to the craft of cinematography, describing him as “the man whose camera shaped the visual language of classical Hindi cinema.”

He highlighted that Shri Vaikunth rose from the lanes of Margao, Goa, to become one of India’s most respected cinematographers, working closely with legendary filmmakers including Gulzar and Ramesh Sippy, and contributing to iconic films such as Seeta Aur Geeta and Aandhi.

“Vaikunthbab was more than a cameraman. He was a creator of emotion, mood and vision,” Dr. Sawant said, adding that his unique style captured both grand cinematic spectacles and the softest human emotions.

Despite shaping some of the finest visual moments in Indian cinema, Shri Vaikunth remained a humble and often unsung hero, the Chief Minister observed, noting that his legacy continues to inspire film lovers across the world.

Shri Prabhat, Additional Secretary (I&B), stated that it is my privilege to honour India’s distinguished master of images and proud son of the soil, Shri K. Vaikunth. A commemorative postal stamp is much more than a postage instrument—it is a miniature public memorial that carries the story of a life and legacy into homes and institutions across the country.

He added that through this release, Shri Vaikunth’s contributions are permanently etched into the visual archives of the republic.

Shri Amitabh Singh, Chief Postmaster General, Maharashtra Circle, welcoming the gathering, said that this commemorative postal stamp is more than a symbol of postage—it is a tribute that carries the history and culture of our country across distances. “Through this stamp, we ensure that the life and contributions of Shri K. Vaikunth continue to inspire generations to come,” he added.

The ceremony concluded with a screening of Shri Vaikunth’s acclaimed 17-minute English documentary, “Goa Marches On”, offering audiences a glimpse into his artistic vision, technical finesse, and profound love for Goa.

For more information, Click on:

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

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

PIB IFFIWood Broadcast Channel: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaEiBaML2AU6gnzWOm3F

X Handles: @IFFIGoa, @PIB_India, @PIB_Panaji

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PIB IFFI CAST AND CREW | Ritu Shukla/Shilpa Nilkanth/Darshana Rane | IFFI 56 - 098