Panjim, Goa — The 56th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) 2025 began on a vibrant note on Thursday, marked by a grand carnival parade and a culturally rich opening ceremony showcasing India’s diverse heritage.
In a symbolic departure from tradition, Goa Governor Pusapati Ashok Gajapathi Raju and Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant inaugurated the festival by watering a Tulsi plant, highlighting IFFI’s commitment to environmental sustainability.
Adding a new visual spectacle to this year’s edition, the opening ceremony featured a carnival-style showcase with cinema-themed tableaux presented by various production houses. The National Film Development Corporation (NFDC) celebrated its 50-year journey with a striking tableau adorned with iconic posters from Jaane Bhi Do Yaaron, The Lunchbox, Salaam Mumbai, and other acclaimed films. Another standout attraction was a meticulously crafted tableau dedicated to Mahavatar Narsimha, which drew enthusiastic appreciation from attendees.
Addressing the audience, Chief Minister Sawant emphasized Goa’s expanding role as a thriving film hub.
“Goa is India’s most preferred shooting destination,” he said, underlining the state’s world-class infrastructure, robust tourism ecosystem, and filmmaker-friendly policies. He further stated that initiatives such as the film finance scheme and single-window clearance have strengthened Goa’s global cinematic presence.
Highlighting India’s growing influence in the creative world, Sawant added, “India is at the forefront of this creativity revolution, and IFFI continues to be the bridge between Indian talent and global possibilities.”
Governor Raju, attending IFFI for the first time, expressed pride in the festival’s international scale, featuring 270 films from 84 countries. He also acknowledged the pivotal role of former Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar in establishing Goa as the permanent home of IFFI.
“This year, the festival brings together a rich blend of world cinema, Indian cinema, and emerging talent, making IFFI a meaningful platform for creative exchange and cinematic excellence,” the Governor said.
The opening ceremony concluded with the screening of The Blue Trail, a Brazilian film by director Gabriel Mascaro, which recently won the Grand Jury Prize at the Berlin International Film Festival 2025.
IFFI 2025 will run until 28th November, culminating in a grand closing ceremony. The Waves Film Bazaar, which opened on November 20, will continue until 24th November.
