Constructing The International Film Festival of India 2025

The 56th International Film Festival of India in Goa is not just a celebration of world cinema — it’s a clear signal of the government’s serious backing for creative talent. At the heart of this edition are major figures from the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting: Union I&B Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, who chairs the IFFI steering committee, and I&B Secretary Sanjay Jaju, both of whom have emphasized a “Convergence of Creativity & Technology” as this year’s guiding theme.

The International Film Festival of India 2025 is being organized by the National Film Development Corporation (NFDC), now more directly responsible for the festival after absorbing several film units. At the July 2025 steering committee meeting, Prakash Magdum, the Managing Director of NFDC, joined hands with Mr. Vaishnaw and Mr. Jaju to plan an expansive line-up, new outreach initiatives, and an inclusive vision for young creators.

In a striking move, IFFI has introduced India’s first AI Film Festival & Hackathon, under the aegis of NFDC and supported by the Ministry. This gives filmmakers and technologists a unique platform to explore AI-driven storytelling, with veteran festival director Shekhar Kapur himself heading the jury.

FTII (Film & Television Institute of India)  another institution under the I&B Ministry is also contributing to IFFI 2025’s spirit of learning. According to recent reports, FTII faculty will lead a Film Appreciation course in Goa during the festival, helping journalists and delegates deepen their understanding of cinema. The involvement of FTII underscores how education and policy are converging within the Ministry’s broader push for creative excellence.

Moreover, Press Information Bureau (PIB) leadership is closely connected: the media accreditation office has highlighted the role of PIB in facilitating IFFI’s press coverage, underlining the institutional seriousness behind the glitz.

All in all, IFFI 2025 feels like much more than just a film festival it’s a strategic, state-supported effort to bridge cinema, technology, and talent.

Imtiaz Ali Unveils Friendship Day Film 'Side Heroes' with Star Cast

Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], August 3: Renowned director Imtiaz Ali has revealed his newest project, aligning with the celebration of Friendship Day.

Varun Sharma, Aparshakti Khurana, Abhishek Banerjee

In an official Instagram post, Mahaveer Jain Films released a video featuring the director alongside the lead cast, which includes the energetic Abhishek Banerjee, Aparshakti Khurana, and Varun Sharma. This trio is renowned for their hilarious comedic performances in the 'Stree' and 'Fukrey' series. In the video, Imtiaz Ali seems to be discussing plans for a potential film titled 'Side Heroes' with the actors, showcasing a surprising Bhojpuri accent while speaking to a friend on the phone.

https://www.instagram.com/reel/DM2crZ7xyji/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Later in the video, the filmmaker hints at a story about lifelong friends, infused with humor and emotions. "It's time to celebrate friendship! To all the friends on Friendship Day," the creators mentioned in the caption. The film, directed by Ssanjay Tripathy, is penned by Siddharth Sen and Pankaj Matta. Imtiaz Ali will produce the movie alongside Mahaveer Jain, Reeyan M Shah, and Mrighdeep Singh Lamba. Providing an update on the project, Varun Sharma expressed his excitement about collaborating with a dream team on a film that he described as "made by friends and for friends."

https://www.instagram.com/p/DM4ZUfkK9JC/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

A team filled with heart and love. With a big smile and immense gratitude, I'm thrilled to be working with this incredible dream team. A film created by friends, for friends everywhere. There's nothing greater than the emotion of friendship. I'm eagerly anticipating the magic to unfold and for the world to witness this wonderfully beautiful script. See you on Friendship Day 2026 in cinemas with "Side Heroes," he wrote on Instagram. Varun also posted behind-the-scenes pictures from the team meeting, capturing everyone in high spirits.

"Side Heroes" is scheduled to begin production this year and is set to be released in theaters on Friendship Day 2026.

#bollywood #entertainment #ImtiazAli #upcoming

Lucky Horze: Empowering New Talents and Monetization Opportunities in Entertainment Industry

Mumbai, India – 7th July 2025: In an entertainment industry frequently dominated by established names and major studios, Lucky Horze, co-founded by Swati Bhat and Pritish Bagdi, is emerging as a transformative influence. This Mumbai-based production and distribution company is committed to cultivating and introducing new talent in the realms of film, music, and content creation.

Pritish Bagdi with Swati Bhat The Visionaries behind Lucky Horze

The Two Horses of Lucky Horze

Swati Bhat — Filmmaker, film strategist, distribution and monetization expert — brings years of expertise in direction, production, project design, international PR and Marketing strategy, Project consulting and monetization, Theatre, Digital and OTT distribution specialist. Her sharp understanding of the global market and festival circuit has helped emerging filmmakers gain real visibility in a crowded industry. Swati’s insight into brand positioning and storytelling is widely respected, with work that spans from Mumbai to Cannes.

Pritish Bagdi — A multifaceted filmmaker, writer, editor, creative director, and an A.I. expert — is known for his hands-on involvement with indie productions, Ad films and festival projects. With a deep passion for unique narratives and cinematic excellence, Pritish continues to collaborate on content that breaks stereotypes and sets new benchmarks.

Together, they’ve built Lucky Horze into more than just a house of distribution and production — it’s a Launchpad for new talents and new investors in Indian and global cinema.

What Makes Lucky Horze Different?

Lucky Horze stands out for its holistic, artist-first approach. The company offers:

·         Worldwide audio and video distribution.

·         Project pitching on OTT and Film Festival strategy.

·         Production consultancy and Project monetization.

·         Music and IP monetization.

·         Global PR and branding strategy for projects and individuals.

Their clients include independent producers, financiers, directors, singers, musicians, OTT platforms, and worldwide audio platforms. Whether it’s a short film, documentary, web series, original audio track, instrumental, or a feature film of any language — Lucky Horze ensures every project gets the name, fame, money, and platform it deserves.

“Our mission is to enable creators, not control them,” says Swati Bhat and Pritish Bagdi. “We believe in empowering stories that matter.”

Launching Fresh Talent

Over the years, Lucky Horze has collaborated with young directors, composers, writers, and producers — guiding them through every stage: from ideation to streaming platform release.

Lucky Horze are partners with top streaming platforms like Spotify, iTunes, Amazon, You Tube Music and over 100 + platforms, not only these but also they make their distributed audios to reach out even on other platforms like F.M., Commercial Events, Malls, Cruise, Airports, BGM for Series, Film, Ad Films, A.I., and wherever music can travel for audio content distribution, ensuring maximum reach for emerging creators.

Decades of Experience, Focused on the Future

With over a decade of combined experience, both founders bring rich, cross-functional backgrounds:

·        Swati's work spans director, producer, film journalism, PR and marketing strategy, collaborations with Theatre, OTT, Digital platforms, and international festival consulting.

·        Pritish’s portfolio includes screenwriting, editing, and artistic direction, with roots in both Bollywood and the independent cinema scene.

Their synergy has made Lucky Horze one of the most artist-centric and respected boutique firms in India in a very short time span.

The Lucky Horze Impact

From Mumbai to World, the impact of Lucky Horze is growing. Their motto — “Global Ideas. Local Roots. Fresh Talent.” — reflects a clear intent: to bridge the gap between raw creative energy and the platforms that can showcase it and monetize it. As they continue to champion diversity, accessibility, and creative freedom, Lucky Horze is reshaping what it means to be a film entrepreneur in India today.

For content partnerships, festival consultancy, or distribution and monetization inquiries, visit www.luckyhorze.com

business@luckyhorze.com

📍 Mumbai, India