The 55th edition of the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) is all set to commence with a glittering Opening Ceremony at Dr. Shyama Prasad Mukherjee Stadium in Goa, on November 20, 2024 at 5:00 PM. The festivities will commence with the Red-Carpet Premiere of the Opening Film – ‘Better Man’, directed by Australian film-maker Michael Gracy, at Inox Panaji at 2:00 PM.
Opening Film Premiere
The Opening Film Premiere will be attended by Union Minister of Information and Broadcasting, Ashwini Vaishnaw along with Minister of State for Information & Broadcasting, Dr. L. Murugan. On the occasion, Chief Minister of Goa, Dr. Pramod Sawant will extend welcome to guests to the beautiful coastal state of Goa, where IFFI is being held since 2004. The presence of these leaders along with the production team of ‘Better Man’ underscores the significance of the festival as a cultural and cinematic celebration of global importance.
Star-studded Opening Ceremony
The gala opening ceremony, amidst the presence of cinematic legends, promises to deliver an unforgettable evening of cultural performances that will remain etched in the hearts of cinema lovers for long.
The Opening Ceremony will be hosted by popular film personalities Abhishek Banerjee and Bhumi Pednekar. The grand evening will bring together the best of Indian cinema as the 55th IFFI begins its week-long journey of cinematic excellence from November 20 to 28, 2024. The ceremony will witness the participation of numerous film personalities whose presence will set the tone for the film festival.
Iconic filmmakers and creators such as Subhash Ghai, Dinesh Vijan, Amar Kaushik, NM Suresh, RK Selvamani, Ishari Ganeshan, Ravi Kotarakara and lyricist Prasoon Joshi will attend the Opening Ceremony. Renowned actors Nagarjuna, Nitya Menon, Aamla, Vikrant Massey, Rakul Preet, Manushi Chillar, Boman Irani, Rajkummar Rao, Abhishek Banerjee, Jaideep Ahlawat, Randeep Hooda, Sanya Malhotra, Jayam Ravi, Jacky Bhagnani, R. Sarath Kumar, Mukta Barve, Sonalee Kulkarni and Radhakrishnan Parthiban will also be present besides other dignitaries. This dazzling gathering of cinema icons is a resounding affirmation of the festival’s ability to bring together the best of Indian and international film talent.
The stellar lineup also includes Sri Sri Ravi Shankar who will inspire attendees with a special address.
Special Focus: Australia
This year’s IFFI will feature Australia as the Country of Focus. The Jannawi Dance Clan, an Australian First Nations dance group, will present an enthralling cultural program, promoting international cultural exchange.
Cultural Showcase and Performances
The opening ceremony will commence with breathtaking performances, showcasing India’s diverse cultural and religious traditions. The audience will experience the spiritual essence of Indian culture.
A special ’90s Rewind: Dance Explosion’ will bring nostalgia to life with electrifying performances on iconic Bollywood hits, while a poetic tribute, “Timeless Souls,” will honour cinematic legends such as Raj Kapoor, ANR and Mohammed Rafi through visuals, music and poetry.
The ceremony will also highlight the evolution of Indian cinema, taking the audience through its journey from the silent era to modern cinematic masterpieces, concluding with a Grand Finale: The Cinematic Symphony, featuring a high-energy medley by Sunny Kaushal and Sanya Malhotra.
Accessible Opening Ceremony
For the first time in IFFI’s history, the opening ceremony will feature live Indian sign language interpretation, ensuring that all attendees, including those with hearing difficulties can fully engage and enjoy the festival.
The 55th International Film Festival of India promises to be a grand celebration of cinematic art and creativity. As the countdown begins for 55th IFFI, movie enthusiasts in India and world over wait with bated breath for a week-long celebration of unparalleled cinematic brilliance at IFFI 2024 in Goa.
