‘Juze’ directed by Miransha Naik emerged the most successful film with 14 awards at the Goa State Film Festival (GSSF) 2025 where Goan superstar Varsha Usgaonkar, who excelled in Marathi cinema, was presented with the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award.
The 4-day GSSF 2025 comprised 19 Feature films and 4 Non-Feature films made in the period from 2018 to 2023, witnessed the awards presentation pertaining to the 10th, 11th and 12th edition of the festival in a dazzling ceremony at Kala Academy, Panaji on Sunday evening.
Chief Minister Dr Pramod Sawant, MLA and Entertainment Society of Goa Vice-Chairperson Delilah Lobo, Damu Naik, BJP (Goa) President, graced the occasion. Ashwin Chandru, IAS, CEO of ESG; Dipak Bandekar, Director, Department of Info & Publicity, were also present.
“It was a pleasure to attend the concluding ceremony of the Goa State Film Festival, a vibrant celebration of creativity, talent, and the enduring spirit of Goan cinema. The festival once again reaffirmed Goa’s place as a hub for art, culture, and cinematic excellence,” stated Dr Sawant.
The Chief Minister hailed Lifetime Achievement awardee Varsha Usgaonkar’s contribution, saying: “Her illustrious journey in theatre and cinema, marked by dedication, versatility, and passion, has not only enriched the Indian cultural landscape but has also brought immense pride to Goa.”
An award for recognition of Goan Film Legacy, was conferred upon Late Baba Naik for his contribution in the Goan Cinema. His son Shiva collected the award and also announced that he will institute an award for best young talent from the next edition of the Festival.
Following awards were presented to films across the 3 editions:
10th Edition (1/1/2018 – 31/12/2019)
Best Feature Film – Juze (14 awards)
11th edition (1/1/2020-31/12/2021)
Best Film – Ransaavat (7 awards)
Best Non Feature Film – Kupamcho Daryeo (5 awards)
12th Edition (1/1/2022 – 31/12/2023)
Best Feature Film – Mog (8 awards)
Best Non Feature Film – Gathan (3 awards).
The winners of the 48 Hours short film competition are as below:
1. Best Film First prize – Ful ani Savli (Flower and Shade)
2. Best Film Second prize – Before Sunrise
3. Best Director- Glen Cardozo (Ful ani Savli)
4. Best Cinematographer- Tejas V. Naik (Ful ani Savli)
5. Best Editor- Yuri B. Carvalho (Ful ani Savli)
6. Best Actor (Male) – Niraj Arrie (Lift)
7. Best Actor (Female) – Rati Bhatikar (Ful ani Savli).
Among the entertainment highlights of the closing ceremony; were the performance by renowned Goan singer Sonia Sirsat, performance by singer Ajit Parab, act by Chala Hawa Yeu Dya-fame Bharat & More and act by Vardhan and group.
