Tag: NFDC

Events in Goa

LTIMindtree Partners with IFFI and NFDC to Launch India’s First AI Film Festival and Hackathon in Goa

Tanisha Cardozo

LTIMindtree, a global technology consulting and digital solutions company, has announced a groundbreaking partnership with the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) and the National Film Development Corporation (NFDC) to launch India’s first Artificial Intelligence (AI) Film Festival and Hackathon. Scheduled to take place from November 20 to 28, 2025, during the 56th edition of IFFI in Goa, the initiative aims to redefine the intersection of art, storytelling, and technology.

Since its inception in 1952, IFFI has stood as India’s premier cinematic platform, bringing together filmmakers and creative professionals from across the globe. With this collaboration, LTIMindtree, NFDC, and IFFI are set to introduce a new era of digital creativity through the integration of AI-powered tools in the cinematic process. The partnership, supported by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, represents a significant step towards fostering innovation in India’s creative economy.

Under this initiative, LTIMindtree’s BlueVerse CraftStudio and NFDC will create a dedicated ecosystem for AI-driven filmmaking, encouraging creators and technologists to collaborate on innovative projects that push the boundaries of storytelling. The AI Film Festival will feature screenings of AI-generated works across fiction, documentary, animation, and experimental categories, offering audiences a glimpse into how technology is reshaping artistic expression.

Complementing the festival is a 48-hour hackathon designed to challenge participants to build AI-powered storytelling and production tools. Alongside the competition, workshops and masterclasses led by global experts will cover topics such as ethical storytelling, AI in film production, and the role of emerging technologies in shaping creative narratives.

Shekhar Kapur, Festival Director of IFFI and Jury Chair of the IFFI AI Film Festival, highlighted the transformative potential of this collaboration, saying, “Cinema has always reflected the power of human imagination. Today, AI gives us a new lens that expands our ability to dream, design, and express. The IFFI AI Film Festival will be a playground for that evolution.”

Dr. Sujay Sen, Executive Vice President and Global Head of Interactive Services at LTIMindtree, echoed the sentiment, noting, “At LTIMindtree, we believe the future of storytelling lies at the confluence of human creativity and AI. Through this collaboration, we are proud to create a platform that nurtures innovation and brings the magic of AI to India’s creative economy.”

Adding to this, Shri Prakash Magdum, Managing Director of NFDC, said, “As India’s leading platform for cinematic excellence, IFFI has always celebrated emerging voices and technologies. Partnering with LTIMindtree and Shekhar Kapur allows us to extend this creative legacy into the world of AI responsibly, inclusively, and with a vision for global collaboration.”

The festival will also feature participation from international AI film festivals, with opportunities for global cross-credit recognition for creators and innovators. By bringing together cinema and cutting-edge technology, the AI Film Festival and Hackathon aim to position India as a global leader in AI-driven cinematic innovation.

Music

Bollywood Stars Shine at Enrique Iglesias’ Electrifying Mumbai Concert

Tanisha Cardozo

The MMRDA Grounds came alive as global pop superstar Enrique Iglesias delivered a sensational live performance that left the crowd spellbound. Making his much-anticipated return to India after 13 years, Enrique performed some of his biggest hits including Hero, Bailamos, Rhythm Divine, and Escape, creating an unforgettable evening for music lovers.

The concert quickly transformed into a star-studded affair as some of Bollywood’s most beloved celebrities joined the crowd to celebrate the pop legend’s performance. Among those spotted were Malaika Arora, Vidya Balan, Rakul Preet Singh, Jackky Bhagnani, Rubina Dilaik, Abhinav Shukla, Sonal Chauhan, Shriya Saran, Gurmeet Choudhary, Debina Bonnerjee, Orry Awatramani, Sharad and Keerti Kelkar, Disha Parmar, Pragya Jaiswal, Tanisha Mukherjee, and Anu Malik, among others.

Videos circulating online showed the stars singing along and dancing as Enrique performed his evergreen romantic anthems. Malaika Arora and Rakul Preet Singh were seen swaying to Hero, while Rubina Dilaik shared her excitement about reliving her “childhood dream” of watching Enrique live.

Fans were treated to an extraordinary visual spectacle, complete with dynamic lighting, live instrumentals, and Enrique’s charismatic stage presence. The Spanish singer greeted the Mumbai audience with a warm “Namaste,” instantly winning hearts and adding a personal touch to the evening.

The concert marked a significant moment for Indian music fans, who had eagerly awaited Enrique’s return since his last performance in 2012. The event was also a celebration of Mumbai’s thriving entertainment culture, where international stars meet Bollywood’s finest under one musical sky.

As the night came to an end, the crowd chanted along to Bailamos, making it a perfect closing note to an evening filled with nostalgia, rhythm, and star power.

Events in Goa

Pete Draper to Reveal the Magic Behind Movie VFX at the 56th IFFI

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo

Goa, October 2025 — The 56th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) is set to captivate cinema enthusiasts with a special session featuring renowned VFX Supervisor Pete Draper, whose visionary work has redefined visual storytelling in Indian cinema. Known for creating breathtaking visuals in cinematic blockbusters like Baahubali, RRR, and several international projects, Draper will take audiences behind the scenes to explore how technology and imagination combine to create movie magic.

At IFFI 2025, Draper will share insights into the evolving world of visual effects — from concept visualization and CGI integration to the seamless blending of digital environments with live action. His talk will highlight the creative and technical processes that transform directors’ visions into spectacular visual experiences.

A veteran in the field of digital artistry, Pete Draper has been instrumental in shaping the modern landscape of Indian VFX. His expertise spans a diverse range of cinematic styles, from historical epics to futuristic fantasies. His work on Baahubali and RRR showcased how Indian cinema could achieve Hollywood-level visual grandeur, inspiring a new generation of filmmakers and digital artists.

The 56th edition of IFFI continues to emphasize the confluence of art, technology, and innovation in cinema. Sessions like these not only offer a glimpse into the craftsmanship behind filmmaking but also celebrate the collaborative spirit that defines the film industry.

The National Film Development Corporation (NFDC), the nodal agency behind IFFI, has consistently brought together global film experts, creative professionals, and cinema lovers to exchange ideas, explore new perspectives, and honor the evolving art of filmmaking.

Audiences attending IFFI 2025 can look forward to a captivating deep dive into the artistry of VFX — where imagination meets innovation, and the impossible becomes cinematic reality.

Films

A Night of Glory: President Droupadi Murmu Confers 71st National Film Awards

Tanisha Cardozo

The 71st National Film Awards transformed Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi, into a vibrant celebration of cinematic excellence as President Droupadi Murmu honoured the finest in Indian cinema. From revered legends to emerging stars, the awards reflected the breadth and brilliance of storytelling that continues to define India’s cultural landscape.

In a moment that will be etched in the annals of film history, President Murmu conferred the prestigious Dadasaheb Phalke Award on veteran actor Mohanlal. She praised his journey from theatre to screen, his embodiment of India’s cultural heritage, and his deep impact on audiences across generations. From the classical Karnabharam to his poignant role in Vanaprastham, Mohanlal’s contribution has been both prolific and profound. With humility and gratitude, the actor dedicated the award to the stalwarts of Malayalam cinema and reaffirmed his commitment to the art form, calling cinema the “heartbeat of his soul.”

The President emphasized the unique role cinema plays in reflecting India’s democratic spirit and cultural diversity. She noted the growing representation of women in the industry and underscored the importance of equal opportunities, both on and off screen. The spotlight on young talent, children’s creativity, and environmental storytelling highlighted the evolving nature of cinema as a force for awareness and innovation.

Among the standout winners of the evening was Shah Rukh Khan, who won Best Actor for Jawan, a role that demanded both scale and nuance. Sharing the honour, Vikrant Massey’s performance in 12th Fail was recognised for its quiet resilience and authenticity. Rani Mukerji, awarded Best Actress for Mrs. Chatterjee v/s Norway, delivered a performance that blurred lines between reel and real, embodying a mother’s anguish with raw emotion.

The awards also recognised the unsung heroes—supporting actors who breathe life into narratives. Vijayaraghavan and Muthupettai Somu Bhaskar won Best Supporting Actor, while Urvashi and Janki Bodiwala were honoured as Best Supporting Actress, showcasing performances that left a lasting impact.

12th Fail was named Best Feature Film, a testament to the power of hope and determination. Non-feature categories also shone brightly, with Flowering Man and God Vulture and Human being recognised for their compelling storytelling and documentary excellence. India’s growing strength in the AVGC space was acknowledged with Hanu-Man taking home the award in that category, and Giddh: The Scavenger earning the Best Short Film honour.

Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw lauded Mohanlal and reiterated the government’s commitment to positioning India as a global content powerhouse. He highlighted the success of initiatives like Waves 2025 and the International Institute of Cinema and Technology (IICT), launched in partnership with tech giants like Meta, Google, Microsoft and NVIDIA. The focus on indigenous film equipment production, live concert economy, and regulatory reforms reflects the roadmap towards a Viksit Bharat by 2047.

Secretary Sanjay Jaju encapsulated the spirit of the event, calling cinema a celebration of stories, dreams, and shared experiences. This year, marked by legends and landmark moments, echoed the motto “Ek Desh, Hazaron Kahaniyan, Ek Junoon”—a tribute to India’s enduring cinematic passion.

As the hall stood in ovation and hearts brimmed with pride, the 71st National Film Awards reminded the nation that cinema is not just entertainment—it is emotion, legacy, and the ever-beating pulse of a country telling its story to the world.

Entertainment

Lights. Camera. Your Story.Indian Panorama at 56th IFFI Now Open for Submissions! 🎬

allycaralgoa

The 56th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) invites passionate storytellers and visionary filmmakers to submit their work to the Indian Panorama, the country’s premier film showcase for cinematic excellence.

With no entry fee and no barriers to access, this year’s Indian Panorama selection truly opens its arms to creative minds from every corner of India.

What’s Indian Panorama?
Organized by the Directorate of Film Festivals under the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, in collaboration with NFDC, the Indian Panorama selects the finest feature and non-feature films from across India to be screened at IFFI Goa — one of Asia’s most prestigious film festivals.

Who Can Apply?
Whether you are a debut filmmaker, indie artist, or seasoned director — if you’ve got a story that deserves the screen, this platform is yours.

Key Highlights

  • No Entry Fee
  • Open to Feature & Non-Feature Films
  • National Recognition and International Visibility
  • Films selected will be showcased during IFFI in Goa

Deadline to Submit: 11th August 2025
Submit at:
🌐 nfdcindia.com
🌐 iffigoa.org

So bring your lens, your heart, and your story — the silver screen awaits.

#IFFI2025 #IndianPanorama #FilmFestivalIndia #NFDC #IFFIGoa #StorytellersWanted #Allycaral