The Goan short film Rishi has achieved a significant milestone on the international stage, securing official selections at two prominent film festivals in March 2026. The film will be showcased at the Arlee Theater Short Film Fest on March 22 at the Arlee Theater in Illinois, USA, and at Rishka Fest 3, scheduled between March 26 and March 28 in Aloki, Bangladesh.
Directed by Mario Pimenta and Anlisa Rodrigues, Rishi reflects the creative strength and evolving storytelling style emerging from Goa’s independent film circuit. The film stars Cyrus Fernandes in the titular role, alongside Roshni Maurya, who plays Zoya.
What sets Rishi apart is its unique narrative structure. Instead of relying on traditional dialogue, the story unfolds primarily through a compelling voiceover delivered by Sneha Fernandes. This creative choice adds depth and introspection to the storytelling, allowing audiences to engage with the film on a more emotional and interpretative level.
The dual international selections mark an important achievement for the team, showcasing the growing global recognition of regional cinema from Goa. Independent filmmakers from the state continue to experiment with new forms of storytelling, and Rishi stands as a testament to this evolving cinematic language.
As the film travels across international platforms, it not only highlights the talent of its cast and crew but also places Goan storytelling on a wider global map, opening doors for more such projects to gain international visibility and appreciation.
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