The 56th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) 2025 commenced on Nov 20 in Panjim with a vibrant and culturally rich opening ceremony that showcased India’s diversity, creativity, and cinematic heritage. The event opened with colourful performances and tableaux representing various regions, setting an energetic tone for the days ahead.
In a symbolic departure from tradition, Pusapati Ashok Gajapathi Raju, Governor of Goa, and Dr. Pramod Sawant, Chief Minister of Goa, inaugurated the festival by watering a Tulsi plant, underscoring this year’s theme of environmental sustainability and mindful creativity.
This year’s ceremony featured a carnival-style procession, where leading production houses displayed cinema-inspired tableaux. The National Film Development Corporation (NFDC), celebrating 50 years, presented a dynamic tableau featuring iconic posters from beloved films, including Jaane Bhi Do Yaaron, The Lunchbox, Salaam Mumbai, and others. Another standout attraction was a beautifully designed tableau dedicated to Mahavatar Narsimha, which captivated audiences with its artistic craftsmanship.
In his address, Chief Minister Pramod Sawant highlighted Goa’s growing stature as a preferred filming hub. “Goa is India’s most preferred shooting destination,” emphasising the state’s world-class infrastructure, thriving tourism ecosystem, and filmmaker-friendly policies. He noted that initiatives such as the film finance scheme and single-window clearances have strengthened Goa’s appeal to both Indian and international creators. “India is at the forefront of this creativity revolution, and IFFI continues to be the bridge between Indian talent and global possibilities. IFFI is the platform where Indian creators and storytellers meet the world,” he added.
Governor Raju, attending his first IFFI, praised the festival’s international reach and commemorated the legacy of former Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar, who was instrumental in making IFFI a permanent fixture in Goa. “This year, the festival brings together 270 films from 84 countries, offering a rich blend of world cinema, Indian cinema, and emerging talent. IFFI continues to be a meaningful platform for creative exchange and cinematic excellence,” he said.
The opening ceremony concluded with the screening of the festival’s opening film, The Blue Trail, a Brazilian feature directed by Gabriel Mascaro, which recently won the Grand Jury Prize at the 2025 Berlin International Film Festival.
IFFI 2025 will run until Nov 28, culminating in a grand closing ceremony on the same evening. Meanwhile, the Waves Film Bazaar, inaugurated on the 20th, will continue until Nov 24, bringing together global industry professionals for networking, collaboration, and market opportunities.
