Renowned filmmaker Ashutosh Gowariker has been appointed as the festival director of the 57th edition of the International Film Festival of India (IFFI), one of Asia’s most prestigious and long-running film festivals. The appointment was announced by India’s Ministry of Information & Broadcasting.
Gowariker succeeds Shekhar Kapur, who served as festival director for the 55th and 56th editions. His appointment marks a significant transition, bringing in a filmmaker known for large-scale storytelling and globally recognised cinema.
Expressing his gratitude, Gowariker said he felt immense pride and joy at taking on the role. Reflecting on his long association with the festival, he shared that he first attended IFFI in 1984 and has remained connected to it over the decades. Most recently, he served as jury president for international cinema at the 2024 edition.
Gowariker is widely regarded as one of Indian cinema’s most ambitious directors, with a filmography that includes the Oscar-nominated Lagaan, as well as acclaimed films like Swades, Jodhaa Akbar and Mohenjo Daro. His work is known for its expansive narratives, blending history, culture and social themes on a grand cinematic scale.
Established in 1952, the International Film Festival of India has grown into a major platform for global cinema. Held annually in Goa, the festival is organised jointly by the government-backed National Film Development Corporation and the state’s entertainment authorities.
IFFI’s diverse programme includes international competition screenings, retrospectives, masterclasses and the WAVES Film Bazaar, which serves as a key marketplace for co-productions and film sales. Over the years, it has played a crucial role in connecting Indian cinema with global audiences and industry stakeholders.
Acknowledging the legacy of the festival, Gowariker emphasised the responsibility that comes with the role. He noted that IFFI has been shaped by decades of dedicated efforts by numerous teams since its inception, and he looks forward to contributing to its continued growth.
He also expressed his eagerness to work closely with the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting and the Government of Goa to further strengthen the festival’s global standing.
With Gowariker at the helm, expectations are high for the 57th edition, as the festival continues to evolve as a significant cultural and cinematic platform on the international stage.
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