Films

Prathamesh Films Announces One of the Biggest Konkani Films Ever Backed


Prathamesh Films has announced what is being described as one of the biggest Konkani films ever envisioned, marking a significant moment for Goa’s regional film industry. Backed by producer Prathamesh Dinesh Naik, the ambitious project reflects a strong belief that Goan stories deserve to be told with scale, dignity and national ambition.

The upcoming feature, produced in association with Bymistake Motion Pictures, represents an unprecedented investment for the Konkani market. The initiative goes beyond commercial intent, positioning itself as a cultural commitment to the people of Goa, local creative talent and the long-term growth of Konkani cinema. The stated objective is clear: to ensure that Konkani films gain recognition and respect on a national platform while retaining their regional authenticity.

For this ambitious venture, the production house sought a filmmaker capable of balancing commercial appeal with cultural depth. Aniket Arun Naik emerged as a natural choice. Following the success of the blockbuster Konkani film Amizade and his impactful role as a distributor expanding the theatrical reach of Aai Saiba!—which crossed over 300 shows in multiplexes within four weeks—Aniket has established himself as a key figure in Goa’s contemporary film landscape.

His return to the director’s chair with this large-scale action drama signals a defining moment for the industry. Deeply rooted in Goan soil, the film promises to blend high-octane action with an emotionally resonant narrative celebrating the culture, spirit and identity of Goa. The collaboration aims to set new benchmarks for Konkani cinema by combining production scale, storytelling sincerity and cinematic impact.

As regional cinema across India gains greater prominence, this project positions Konkani films within that larger national conversation. With a strong creative vision and strategic industry collaboration, the upcoming feature aspires to redefine expectations and broaden the horizons of Goan cinema.

Entertainment

IFFI 2025 Unveils Goan Films Lineup & Cultural Celebrations for Its 56th Edition


The 56th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) will be held from 20th to 28th November 2025, bringing together cinema lovers, filmmakers, and cultural performers from across India and the world. As part of its commitment to promoting Goan talent, the Entertainment Society of Goa (ESG) has announced the selection of Goan films in the special Goan Director’s Cut and Goan Producer’s Cut sections.

This year, ESG received 17 entries across Feature and Non-Feature segments, out of which 5 films have been selected by the esteemed jury.

Jury Members

ESG expressed gratitude to the respected jury:

  • P. Sheshadri – Chairman of Jury
  • Priya Krishnaswamy – Jury Member
  • Rajeev Bhatia – Jury Member

The panel, comprising noted professionals from the Indian film industry, evaluated the entries with expertise and dedication.


Selected Films

Goan Director’s Cut

  1. ZERO BULB – Directed by Soham Prasad Bhende (Non-Feature, Premiere)
  2. HALAD – Directed by Sobita Kudtarkar (Non-Feature, Premiere)
  3. MY DAD INVENTED THE VADAPAV – ASHOK VAIDYA AND SONS – Directed by Sainath Uskaikar (Non-Feature, Non-Premiere)

Goan Producer’s Cut

  1. MERAKI, BY THE SEA – Produced by Dr. Gwendolynn De Ornelas (Non-Feature, Premiere)
  2. GHAR – Produced by Sahit Studios LLP (Non-Feature, Premiere)

ESG congratulated all directors, producers, cast, crew, and contributors whose films have been selected for the prestigious IFFI screenings.


Inside IFFI 2025: What’s New This Year

Open-Air Screenings

Films will be screened at:

  • Miramar Beach
  • Ravindra Bhavan, Fatorda
  • Vagator Beach Parking (Helipad)

IFFI Mile

A lively stretch from ESG to Kala Academy featuring stalls, installations, and public-engagement activities.

Grand IFFI Float Parade – 20 November 2025

Replacing the traditional opening ceremony, the Float Parade will begin at Old GMC Building at 3:30 PM and proceed to Kala Academy, celebrating:
“Indian Cinema, India on Global Platform and the Future of Cinema.”

Segment 1 – Goan Cultural Floats

12 Goan groups participate.
Prizes:

  • 1st – ₹3,50,000
  • 2nd – ₹3,00,000
  • 3rd – ₹2,50,000
  • 4th – ₹2,00,000
  • 5th – ₹1,50,000
  • 5 Consolation – ₹1,00,000 each
  • All non-winners receive ₹30,000 remuneration.

Segment 2 – Promotional Floats

Featuring production houses, media platforms, and creative collectives.
Prizes:

  • 1st – ₹2,50,000
  • 2nd – ₹2,00,000
  • 3rd – ₹1,50,000
  • 4th – ₹1,25,000
  • 5th – ₹1,00,000
  • Non-winners receive ₹30,000 remuneration.

Romtamel Competition (21–25 November)

Showcasing Goa’s traditional Romtamel art form with 10 leading performance groups.

Prizes:

  • 1st – ₹3,00,000
  • 2nd – ₹2,50,000
  • 3rd – ₹2,00,000
  • 4th – ₹1,75,000
  • 5th – ₹1,50,000
  • 5 Consolation – ₹1,00,000 each

Transport Facilities for Delegates

Free services include:

  • Rickshaws, pool cars, and KTC electric buses (8:30 AM till last screening)
  • Bus Routes:
  1. Miramar Circle ↔ INOX Porvorim
  2. Miramar Circle ↔ Magic Moviez, Ponda
  3. Miramar ↔ Ravindra Bhavan, Margao

IFFI 2025 promises a grand cinematic and cultural celebration that blends Goan creativity with India’s vibrant film heritage.