Pune, 19th January 2024: Avinash Dhakne, Managing Director of Dadasaheb Phalke Chitranagari, unveiled exciting news at the inauguration of the Pune International Film Festival (PIFF), indicating that the Maharashtra state government is gearing up to introduce a comprehensive film policy. Dhakne expressed optimism about the potential benefits this policy could bring, especially for local youth engaged in filmmaking, signaling positive advancements in the state’s film industry.
PIFF Inauguration Highlights:
PIFF kicked off with a spectacular inauguration ceremony attended by distinguished figures from the film fraternity. Dr Jabbar Patel, the festival’s director, along with international dignitaries like Francesca Amendola, Marcus Bechel, and Ravi Gupta, marked the occasion with their presence.
Renowned personalities, including radio announcer Amin Sayani, director-actor Gautam Ghosh, and dancer-actress Leela Gandhi, were honored with the ‘PIFF Distinguished Award.’ Music composer, singer, and lyricist MM Kirwani received the prestigious SD Burman Award for his significant contributions to the field of music.
‘Cinema Ek Asha’ – Cinema is Hope:
Dr Jabbar Patel emphasized the power of cinema as a remedy for the world’s current tensions, declaring the theme of this year’s festival as ‘Cinema Ek Asha’ (Cinema is Hope). Out of 1186 films submitted globally, 140 were selected, with 44 premiering at the Pune Film Festival.
Gautam Ghosh highlighted the importance of ‘PIFF’ in India, praising the enthusiastic audience in Pune and acknowledging Marathi cinema’s significance. He emphasized cinema’s potential to bring peace to the world, quoting D. W. Griffith.
Festival Grandeur:
The festival honored the esteemed international jury, unveiling the Pune Film Festival catalogue, and presenting a coffee table book on actor Dev Anand. The event showcased the vibrancy and diversity of global cinema.
The Pune International Film Festival, scheduled from January 18 to 25, will feature films across 11 screens at three locations: PVR Icon, Inox, and Cinepolis Cinemas. Beyond being a celebration of cinematic excellence, the festival provides audiences with an opportunity to engage with diverse films from around the world.
Film enthusiasts can register online at www.piffindia.com or participate through spot registrations at the theaters, with a nominal fee of Rs 800 for the entire festival. The opening film, ‘A Brighter Tomorrow’ from Italy, directed by Nani Moretti, set the tone for a week filled with cinematic brilliance and cultural celebration.
