Goa, November 20, 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.
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.
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.
Legendary actor Nandamuri Balakrishna was honoured for his 50 glorious years in Cinema and his remarkable contributions in enriching the Telugu cinema.
The parade will be led by the magnificent state tableaus of Andhra Pradesh, Haryana, and Goa, each presenting a vivid portrait of identity and imagination. Andhra Pradesh brings the charm of Visakhapatnam’s golden shores, the mystic valleys of Araku and the pulsating spirit of Tollywood. Haryana offers a colourful fusion of folklore, theatre, culture and cinematic pride. Goa, the festival’s long-standing home, forms the emotional heart of the procession, celebrating its cosmopolitan warmth and timeless bond with world cinema.
Marching alongside the states are grand cinematic tableaus from India’s leading production houses — each a moving universe of storytelling excellence. The mythic power of Akhanda 2, the emotional depth of Ram Charan’s Peddi, the creative force of Mythri Movie Makers, the iconic legacy of Zee Studios, the global vision of Hombale Films, the Odia heritage of Bindusagar, Ultra Media’s centenary homage to Guru Dutt, and the vibrant storytelling realm of WAVES OTT — all converge to showcase the boundless diversity of Indian cinema. Adding a historic dimension is the NFDC 50 Years Tableau, honouring five decades of nurturing filmmakers and fostering cinematic innovation across the nation.
Opening the parade with breathtaking energy was the Central Bureau of Communication’s “Bharat Ek Soor”, a spellbinding folk symphony featuring over a hundred artists from sixteen states. Bhangra meets Garba, Lavani flows into Ghoomar, Bihu breathes beside Chhau and Nati, culminating in a majestic Tricolour formation that embodies India’s unified cultural heartbeat.
The inauguration ceremony was graced by a constellation of dignitaries, including Union Minister of State for New & Renewable Energy, Shri Shripad Yesso Naik, celebrated actor Shri Anupam Kher, Festival Director Shri Shekhar Kapur, and an assembly of filmmakers, creators, global industry leaders and cinephiles.
