Goemkarponn desk
PANAJI: Welcoming the guests, Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawat said that the 54th IFFI held in Goa has been the journey of discovery of the celebration of artistry and testament of the power of the story telling. “This year’s edition has been testament to our commitment fostering inclusive environment where diverse voices converge and cinematic excellence thrives. The festival has been true reflection of the diversity and vibrancy of the cinema showcasing films from more than 75 countries,” he said.
Shri Sawant also added that the festival is particularly special for Goa as it showed the cultural heritage of the state by providing a platform for the Goan film makers to showcase their talent and creativity. He added that the participation of Goan film makers in this year’s film festival is truly remarkable.
In Photo: Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant delivering welcome address at the closing ceremony
Reinforcing the state’s commitment to foreign filmmakers coming for shooting, the Chief Minister said that with the lushgreen forests, river, waterfalls, villages and terrace rice fields, Goa will be filmmakers’ paradise as it offers a mix of traditional and modern house settings. “Streamline system of shooting films in the state offers hazzle free permissions to access diverse locations. I stand committed to make region of Goa the heaven for film industry. The plan is underway to develop infrastructure providing cutting edge technology and incentivize the international film makers”, he elaborated.
In Photo: Chairperson of the International Jury of IFFI Shekhar Kapoor addressing the audience at the closing ceremony.
Chairperson of the International Jury of IFFI Shekhar Kapoor said that film festivals are important since it is very important to tell our stories in the context of what is happening around the world amidst conflicts and war. “Our stories are who we are. Stories are fundamentally about being human. Being human is our fundamental aspect. If we tell our stories to each other, people will listen across borders and understand each other”, he added.
NFDC Managing Director Prithul Kumar delivered the vote of thanks. Vice Chairperson, Entertainment Society of Ms Goa Dalilah Lobo, Chief Secretary of Goa Dr. Puneet Kumar Goel, Entertainment Society of Goa CEO Ms Ankita Mishra, and other dignitaries also participated in the closing ceremony. Mandira Bedi hosted the ceremony which witnessed some stunning performances by star actors like Amit Trivedi and Ayushmann Khurrana.
