Pune: Maharashtra Government To Unveil A Comprehensive Film Policy Soon
Pune, 19th January 2024: Avinash Dhakne, Managing Director of Dadasaheb Phalke Chitranagari, revealed at the inauguration of the Pune International Film Festival (PIFF) that the Maharashtra state government is set to unveil a comprehensive film policy. Dhakne expressed optimism that this new policy would be particularly advantageous for local youth engaged in filmmaking. The announcement sets the stage for potential advancements in the film industry within the state.
PIFF commenced with a spectacular inauguration ceremony, attended by notable figures from the film fraternity. Director of the festival, Dr Jabbar Patel, along with international dignitaries like Francesca Amendola, Marcus Bechel, and Ravi Gupta, marked the occasion with their presence.
Famed personalities, including radio announcer Amin Sayani, director-actor Gautam Ghosh, and dancer-actress Leela Gandhi, were honoured 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.
Dr Jabbar Patel highlighted 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 emphasized the importance of ‘PIFF’ in India, praising the enthusiastic audience in Pune and acknowledging Marathi cinema’s significance. He quoted D. W. Griffith, emphasizing cinema’s potential to bring peace to the world.
The festival felicitated the esteemed international jury, including Petr Zelenka, Shai Goldman, Sudhir Mishra, Manju Borah, Setareh Iskandar, Umran Safter, Sue Prado, and Visakesa Chandrasekram. The unveiling of the Pune Film Festival catalogue and a coffee table book on actor Dev Anand added to the grandeur of the event.
The Pune International Film Festival, scheduled from January 18 to 25, will showcase films on 11 screens across three locations: PVR Icon, Inox, and Cinepolis Cinemas. The festival is not only a celebration of cinematic excellence but also an opportunity for audiences 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 theatres, 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.
