top of page
The Communiqué News

On the fifth day of the 56th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in Panaji, Goa, the day included an enlightening masterclass by the well-known writer/director Mr. Rajkumar Hirani, along with exclusive film screenings and numerous other activities.


Swati Bhat

Rajkumar Hirani on the Emotional Journey from Writing to Editing at IFFI 2025

In his Masterclass on Writing and Editing, Rajkumar Hirani emphasised that writing is the process of envisioning a film, whereas editing is the phase where a film is truly experienced. He highlighted the often-overlooked significance of an editor, noting that a film attains its true essence at the editing table. Mr. Hirani also explored the underlying themes in some of his iconic films.

During the film screenings, critically acclaimed works were showcased, including the Japanese film "Two Seasons, Two Strangers," the world premiere of the Albanian film "Hana," and Govind Nihalani’s 1984 classic "Party." Creators of non-mainstream films such as "Lala and Poppy" and "The Pursuit of Spring" offered insights into their projects, emphasizing how their storytelling seeks not only to entertain but also to make a lasting impact on audiences.

Later in the day, IFFI’s musical event, IFFIesta, will conclude at the Shyama Prasad Mukherjee Indoor Stadium. The finale will feature programs such as Battle of Bands, Suron Ka Eklavya, Waah Ustad, and Devanchal ki Prem Katha.

Day 04 of IFFI 2025 highlighted international talent through creative challenges


Swati Bhat

Celebrating the Triumphs of Young Filmmakers at the 48-Hour Challenge

Day 04 of the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) 2025 was a vibrant assembly of global talent, marked by the conclusion of intense creative challenges and inspiring masterclasses.

The day began with the grand finale of the 48-hour Challenge of Creative Minds of Tomorrow (CMOT), capturing the exhaustion, relief, and joy of young filmmakers as they presented their final projects.

The PIB Media Centre was the lively heart of the festival, hosting a series of significant press conferences. Directors and actors from 'De Tal Palo' (Iván Dariel Ortiz Landrón, José Félix Gómez) and 'Pike River' (Robert Sarkies) shared their compelling stories, while the teams behind 'Seaside Serendipity' (Tomomi Yoshimura) and 'Tiger' (Anshul Chauhan, Kosei Kudo, Mina Moteki) highlighted the strong influence of Asian cinema.

Indian regional cinema and documentaries were prominently showcased, with Sandesh Kadur, Paresh Mokashi, and Debangkar Borgohain discussing their unique films: 'Nilgiris – A Shared Wilderness,' 'Mukkam Post Bombilwadi,' and 'Sikaar'. International artistry continued to captivate as directors Christina Theresa Tournatzès ('Karla') and Hayakawa Chie ('Renoir') shared their creative journeys in a joint session.

The highlight of Day 04 was the much-anticipated Masterclass: 'Giving Up is NOT a Choice!'. Renowned Actor and Speaker Anupam Kher enthralled the audience at Kala Academy with a powerful and motivational speech that reinforced the day's theme of resilience and passion.

Conclusion of 48 hours of Challenge of CMOT

Celebrating the Triumphs of Young Filmmakers at the 48-Hour Challenge

The 48-hour "Creative Minds of Tomorrow" (CMOT) challenge concluded with a closing ceremony today, November 23, 2025, at the Kala Academy in Goa, as part of the 56th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) 2025.




The INOX venue buzzed with the energy of India's folk traditions. Artists from across the nation, showcased by the Central Bureau of Communication's troupes, captivated audiences with traditional dances, regional songs, and vibrant storytelling, celebrating India's heart and heritage.

ree

The Thadiya folk dance and song from Garhwal, Uttarakhand, brings the Himalayan spirit to IFFI 2025, performed soulfully by CBC PRTs.

ree

The CBC PRTs' performance of Assam's captivating Bhortal dance enthrals the audience at IFFI 2025.

ree

The vibrant Sambalpuri folk dance of Odisha highlights the state's rich rhythmic heritage.

ree

Jajhiya folk dance performance from the Mithila region of Bihar by CBC PRTs at IFFI 2025

ree

The SINHTOO DANCE of the Hatti Tribe in Sirmour District, Himachal Pradesh, vibrantly showcases tribal culture and energy.

ree

The Gussadi-Tribal dance of Telangana captivates with its intricate steps, traditional attire, and raw cultural energy.

ree

A lively Dogri dance from Jammu showcases the region's cultural melodies and joyful spirit at IFFI 2025.

ree

A beautiful Raas Folk Dance by People's Action for Social Development, Daman and Diu, celebrating unity through rhythm.

ree

The spectacular Addukke Karagattam, a traditional Tamil Nadu folk dance requiring immense skill and grace, thrills the IFFI 2025 audience.





bottom of page