As the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) approaches, Goa transforms into a vibrant hub of cinema, culture, and glamour. The picturesque locales, from the sparkling beaches to the historic churches, become the backdrop for film enthusiasts and industry professionals alike.
This year’s festival kicks off just as the St. Francis Xavier exposition takes place in Old Goa, creating a perfect confluence of spirituality and cinematic celebration that further enhances the charm of this tourist state.
Indeed, IFFI has contributed significantly to establishing Goa’s identity as the film capital of India. With a growing reputation, the state has become a favoured location for Bollywood filmmakers, who have recently shot major blockbusters like “Singham” and “Golmaal” against its stunning vistas.
However, despite this surge in attention, there remains an elephant in the room—the struggles of local Konkani cinema.
While IFFI showcases a variety of films from around the world and has helped elevate Goa’s status in the cinematic landscape, it has not fully addressed the needs and aspirations of local filmmakers.
The irony is stark: as Goa basks in the glow of national and international filmmakers, the local film industry languishes, finding it increasingly difficult to achieve visibility and viability.
Konkani cinema, with its rich storytelling potential and cultural nuances, deserves a platform that celebrates its uniqueness.
Yet, despite the talent that exists within the state, local films often go unnoticed at major events like IFFI, leading to the question: why does this disconnect persist? It is not a lack of quality or creativity on the part of local filmmakers; rather, it seems to stem from insufficient support and promotion from the very institutions that could champion these efforts.
The state government’s past initiatives to fund local cinema have seen a decline, leaving filmmakers scrambling to find resources to bring their stories to life. The talent pool in Goa is undeniable—actors, directors, and writers possess the potential to tell compelling narratives. What is needed now is a concerted effort to revitalize local cinema through state-sponsored funding and resources, ideally at a level that matches the excitement surrounding larger productions.
Support for Konkani films could manifest in various forms, whether through financial grants, training programs, or even dedicated slots at festivals like IFFI.
More visibility can be given to local talent, allowing Goan filmmakers to showcase their work on a larger stage. This could not only enhance the cultural tapestry of Goa but also promote the language and heritage encapsulated in these films.
As Goa welcomes visitors for the festival, it is crucial to remember the local voices that deserve to be heard. Celebrating international cinema should go hand-in-hand with nurturing homegrown talent. The IFFI is a magnificent opportunity, not just to showcase films but to elevate the local film industry to a place where it can thrive alongside its international counterparts.
In this spirit, let us hope that the forthcoming festival, amidst its glitz and glamour, serves as a reminder to support and promote the rich cinematic heritage of Goa—because every great film story begins at home.
SURAJ BNANDREKAR
Editor, Goemkarponn
