Today, November 20, 2025, marks the grand opening of the 56th International Film Festival of India (IFFI 2025) in Goa. This festival is considered the biggest annual celebration for film enthusiasts, offering a captivating showcase of films from around the world.
IFFI 2025: The 56th International Film Festival (IFFI 2025) has commenced today in Goa. As in previous years, there's significant excitement among the audience for this edition. For cinema lovers, this festival is akin to a grand confluence, as it screens the finest and most prestigious films from across the globe.
This year's festival lineup includes several internationally acclaimed films, prominent documentaries, classic re-restored titles, and films by new emerging talents. Audiences will be able to experience the cinema, culture, and storytelling styles of various countries.
Inauguration of Waves Film Bazaar
The Waves Film Bazaar at IFFI 2025 was inaugurated today at 11 AM. Dr. L. Murugan, Minister of State for Information and Broadcasting, presided over the inauguration. Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant and Secretary of the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Sanjay Jaju, were also present on the occasion. The Chief Minister of Goa had visited the venue on Wednesday itself to review the preparations and ensure that all arrangements would run smoothly during the festival.
Three Films by Anupam Kher to be Screened
This year, three films starring veteran Bollywood actor Anupam Kher will be showcased at IFFI. These films are:
- Tanvi The Great – A home production, included in the Indian Panorama section.
- The Bengal Files – Directed by Vivek Agnihotri, to be screened in the Indian Panorama section.
- Calorie – A Canadian film, written and directed by Indo-Canadian filmmaker Isha Marjara, included in the International section.
In a conversation with news agency ANI, Anupam Kher stated, “This is a significant milestone in my career. For the first time in my 41-year cinematic journey, I have the opportunity to screen three films. This experience is truly honoring and exhilarating.”
Anupam Kher's Master Class
During IFFI 2025, Anupam Kher will also conduct a master class. Its theme is: "Giving up is not an option." The actor remarked, "Very few actors get the opportunity to share their art and experience at such an international festival. This is a memorable moment in my career spanning 41 years and 549 films."
Anupam Kher also shared a post on Instagram, writing, “I am extremely excited to share my learnings with the audience and young artists at this global confluence of cinema. Looking forward to meeting everyone in Goa.”
Festival Highlights
- Time and Duration: November 20 to 28, 2025
- Number of Films: 240+ films to be screened
- Countries Involved: Films from 81 countries
- Special Premieres: 13 World Premieres, 4 International Premieres, 46 Asian Premieres
- Location: Goa, various major cinemas and festival venues
This edition of IFFI is not limited solely to film screenings. It also serves as a platform for international networking and collaboration among filmmakers, directors, artists, and cinema enthusiasts.
