Tag: Konkani film

Events in Goa

Dr. Pramod Sawant Inaugurated the Goa Section at the 56th International Film Festival of India

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo || Team Allycaral

Dr. Pramod Sawant inaugurated the Goa Section at the 56th International Film Festival of India, marking a significant moment for Goan cinema and its growing presence on national and international platforms. The ceremony was followed by the screening of the Konkani film Halad, directed by Sobita Kudtadkar, which opened the Goa Section this year.

Dr. Sawant expressed pride in the resilience and passion of Goan filmmakers, acknowledging their dedication to preserving the region’s storytelling heritage despite numerous challenges. He highlighted that Goan cinema has always been driven by creativity, cultural pride and a commitment to authentic narratives.

This year’s edition of IFFI features two Goan films—Claudia and The Pilot—in the prestigious Gala Premiere Section, a testament to the growing strength of the local film industry. Additionally, five films were selected for the Goa Section: Zero Bulb, Halad, My Dad Invented the Vadapav, Meraki, By the Sea and Ghar.

Dr. Sawant extended his best wishes to all the filmmakers whose works are being showcased, emphasizing that their achievements continue to inspire future generations of Goan storytellers. The inauguration reflected both celebration and hope, positioning Goan cinema to shine even more brightly on the global stage.

Films

Goan Film Claudia by Rajendra Talak Invited for Indian Panorama–Special Presentation at IFFI 2025

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo || Team Allycaral

The Konkani film Claudia, written, produced, and directed by veteran Goan filmmaker Rajendra Talak, will be featured in the “Indian Panorama – Special Presentation” section at the 56th International Film Festival of India (IFFI), scheduled from 20 to 28 November 2025 in Goa. Although no Goan film was selected in the official Indian Panorama categories this year, Claudia has been extended a special invitation to participate in the festival. The National Film Development Corporation (NFDC), which organizes the Indian Panorama section, confirmed the inclusion, facilitated under the leadership of its Managing Director, Prakash Magdum.

Claudia tells the story of a saxophone player who loses his ability to perform, and his daughter’s emotional journey as she helps him rediscover his passion for music. The film explores themes of loss, hope, and the enduring strength of family bonds. Rajendra Talak, known for acclaimed Konkani films such as O Maria, Aleesha, and Miranda House, has been a key contributor to regional cinema and a strong advocate for showcasing Goan stories on national platforms.

According to reports, Claudia will represent Goa in the Special Presentation segment of Indian Panorama, which highlights distinctive works from across the country outside the main competition categories. The recognition ensures that Goa’s voice in cinema continues to resonate at the nation’s premier film festival.

Films

Goan Documentary “Bhaangar Kalakusar Karigiri” Wins Big at Miseentage Indian Film Awards 2025

Tanisha Cardozo

In a proud and historic moment for Goan cinema, the Konkani-language documentary “Bhaangar Kalakusar Karigiri” has been awarded Best Documentary at the Miseentage Indian Film Awards 2025. Directed and shot by Prachi Shirodkar, a debutant filmmaker from Porvorim, Goa, the film captures the essence of Goa’s traditional goldsmith artistry and craftsmanship.

The 10-minute short film, edited by Mario Pimenta, focuses on the nuanced legacy of local artisans including Pranay Shirodkar, Virendra Rivankar, and Rashila Shirodkar, whose dedication to preserving Goa’s intricate gold-making traditions is both poetic and inspiring. The film blends visual storytelling with authentic oral histories, all conveyed through the rhythmic flow of the Konkani language.

“Receiving this recognition at a national platform is not just a personal milestone,” said director Prachi Shirodkar, “It’s a tribute to the unsung heroes of Goan craftsmanship whose stories are finally being heard.”

The Miseentage Indian Film Awards, organized by Film Fest Maniac, aim to provide a digital stage for India’s emerging filmmakers whose unique narratives deserve national attention. This year’s edition saw an impressive range of submissions, but “Bhaangar Kalakusar Karigiri” stood out for its cultural depth, artistic cinematography, and powerful message.

The award also coincides with the 75th anniversary of Goan cinema, making this win even more symbolic. It signifies not just a personal victory for the creators, but a collective step forward for Goa’s representation in India’s diverse cinematic landscape.

With this recognition, Bhaangar Kalakusar Karigiri joins the ranks of impactful regional films that are redefining Indian documentary storytelling — one frame at a time.