“शेजारी – Neighbour” is the Official Theme for the 48-Hour Short Film Challenge at GSFF 2025
The much-anticipated 48-Hour Short Film Making Competition at the Goa Short Film Festival (GSFF) 2025 has officially begun — and the theme for this year is both intimate and universal: “शेजारी – Neighbour.” 🏘️
With a ticking clock, cameras rolling, and adrenaline running high, filmmakers across Goa and beyond are now racing against time to bring their stories to life. From spontaneous screenplays to overnight edits, this is not just a contest — it’s a celebration of bold, fast, and fearless storytelling.
🗓️ Important Deadline
Participants must submit their completed short films by:
📍 4th August 2025, before 10:00 AM
📌 Submission Venue: ESG Office, Panaji, Goa
🎞️ Film Requirements
- ⏱️ Duration: Minimum 5 minutes, Maximum 40 minutes
- 🗣️ Languages: Konkani or Marathi only
- 🔠 Subtitles: English subtitles are mandatory
This unique format challenges filmmakers to write, shoot, edit, and submit a complete short film in just 48 hours — all while staying true to the central theme: “Neighbour.”
🏘️ Why “शेजारी – Neighbour”?
The theme opens up a world of storytelling possibilities. Whether it’s a slice-of-life drama, a gripping thriller, a quirky comedy, or a social commentary, the idea of a “neighbour” is deeply relatable yet flexible enough for broad interpretation. It’s a prompt that connects us to the people next door — and perhaps, to the sides of ourselves we seldom explore.
From chaotic balconies to community conflicts, awkward conversations to unexpected friendships — this year’s films are sure to reflect every shade of life that unfolds on either side of the wall.
🎥 About the Challenge
Organised as part of GSFF 2025 in association with the Entertainment Society of Goa (ESG), the 48-Hour Film Challenge is now one of the most awaited creative contests in the state. It brings together amateur enthusiasts, student filmmakers, and seasoned directors to prove their mettle under real pressure.
With no time to second-guess and no room for delays, the challenge pushes creators to trust their instincts, collaborate quickly, and capture cinematic moments on the go.
💡 Past Impact
Over the years, this competition has not only been a testing ground but also a launching pad. Several short films developed under this challenge have gone on to win awards, gain online traction, and be screened at national and international festivals. The competition thrives on spontaneity — but often results in unforgettable storytelling.
🏆 What’s at Stake?
While the creative rush is its own reward, shortlisted and winning films will be screened during GSFF 2025, offering visibility, recognition, and celebration from the Goan film community and beyond.
📣 Final Word
So if you’re a filmmaker with a vision, a camera, and a tight-knit crew — this is your moment.
A theme that speaks to everyday lives. A deadline that fuels raw creativity. A stage that celebrates the art of telling stories that matter — fast.
📽️ Let the challenge begin.
🎞️ Let your neighbours become your next masterpiece.
🚨 Deadline: 4th August 2025, before 10:00 AM at ESG Office
For submission and detailed guidelines, visit nfdcindia.com or iffigoa.org
📖 Follow Allycaral for more updates, highlights, and behind-the-scenes moments from GSFF 2025.
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