The 43rd International Film Festival of India was inaugurated in Panaji, Goa, on Tuesday in a glittering ceremony that celebrated the 100 years of Indian cinema.
At the event information and broadcasting minister Manish Tewari reiterated the government’s commitment towards promotion of films in the country.
Speaking at the occasion, Mr Tewari pointed out that a number of steps were being initiated for the promotion of the sector.
“The government is taking a number of steps to promote India as a destination for film shooting. We are also encouraging production of quality films and encouraging the documentary movement in the country,” he added.
He also exhorted the film medium to use its power for the larger good of the society. “It is a challenge that our film industry needs to take up to contribute to a better society,” Mr Tewari added.
He pointed out that Raja Harishchandra, the first Indian movie, will also be screened at the event.
Actor Akshay Kumar was the chief guest at the occasion and appreciated the efforts of the government in promoting festivals like IFFI.
Paying tribute to superstar Rajesh Khanna and other film personalities who passed away recently, Mr Kumar asked everyone to observe a minute’s silence in their honour.
Polish filmmaker Krzysztof Zanussi was awarded the lifetime achievement award at the event while the opening film Life of Pi, directed by the Oscar winner Ang Lee, was screened to a packed house.
Amid huge applause, the inaugural evening saw a live performance Saroj Khan trained troupe paying tribute to 100 years of Indian cinema. The event also saw a performance of singer Kailash Kher.
Speaking on the occasion, Goa chief minister Manohar Parikkar stated that the state government was promoting shooting of films in the state in a big way. “Though eight years have passed since the IFFI awards we still have a lot to do in terms of making this festival an international event,” he added.
This year a special award ‘Centenary Award’ has been instituted tocommemorate 100 years of Indian cinema will be given to a work which has brought a paradigm change in the making of films through an aesthetic, technical or technological innovation.