51th India International Film Festival : Cinematic Display of Bharat

The International Film Festival of India (IFFI), founded in 1952, is one of the most significant film festivals in Asia. Held annually, currently in the state of Goa, the festival aims at providing a common platform for the cinemas of the world to project excellence of the film art; contributing to the understanding and appreciation of film cultures of different nations in the context of their social and cultural ethos; and promoting friendship and cooperation among people of the world.

The closing ceremony of the 51st edition of IFFI, Goa got off to a sparkling start at the Shyama Prasad Mukherjee Indoor Stadium, in Talegaon, Goa on January, 24, 2021. Veteran Bollywood actor Zeenat Aman and actor-cum politician Ravi Kishan were the Guests of honour, while veteran actor, director and producer Biswajit Chatterjee was presented with the Indian Personality of the Year Award.

On the occasion, Governor of Goa Shri Bhagat Singh Koshiyari lauded the organisers for holding the festival, despite the extraordinary times which we are going through. “Cinema is uniting not only our country, but our neighbouring countries as well. I salute Indian cinema and filmmakers. Film festival is an opportunity to learn and to remind us that the whole world is one, despite differences. Cinema touches the heart, not the mind; it comes not from the mind but from the heart.”

Addressing the gathering, Union Minister Babul Supriyo said this edition of IFFI has cleared all apprehensions and has emerged as the perfect platform for excellence. “IFFI 51 is a one-of-kind achievement, given that we organised this in a hybrid mode amidst the pandemic. The festival edition has conquered all ifs and buts to ensure that there is no if when it comes to ensuring the bonding and closeness between us human beings. The edition has given a global roadmap of excellence. We are excited about the New India and we believe the show must go on.”

Stating that IFFI stood out as a wonderful sign of creativity, Chief Minister of Goa Dr Pramod Sawant congratulated all film personalities, delegates and organisers. “Goa will now be known not just for the sun, sand and sea. Many steps are being taken for the development of the state, including for promotion of tourism and eco-tourism. Fourth International Bird Festival is being held in Goa, which would be an occasion for witnessing the state’s natural beauty. I welcome filmmakers of India and abroad to come and shoot in Goa.”

It was Manohar Parrikar who made IFFI synonymous with Goa. Goa first hosted IFFI when Parrikar was the Chief Minister, and it has since become IFFI’s permanent home. He had ensured the Centre inks deal to make Goa the permanent IFFI venue.

One of the administrative officers who was assisting Parrikar at that time Ms Sanchita Rodrigues, who was also associated with the entertainment society of Goa, said, time was running short and resources were scarcely but with Parrikar at the helm, it was 24 hour working hours for us, but the Goa Government fulfilled the task perfectly and on time. When the 1st IFFI was held in 2004, the beauty and ambience of Goa were perfectly complementing the foreign guests. The preparation was done under guidance of Manohar Parrikar with a clear vision and dedication. From day one he was preparing Goa as a permanent destination of this festival, and the goal was both to enhance the economy of Goa and put the culture of Goa on the world forum in a unique way.