IFFI 2026 in Goa to spotlight young filmmakers, expand global cinema reach

NEW DELHI: The cameras are not rolling yet, but preparations for the 57th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) are well underway. The first meeting of the festival’s steering committee was held in New Delhi on August 21, with a focus on expanding opportunities for young filmmakers, strengthening international participation and positioning IFFI as a stronger platform for India’s creative economy.

The meeting was chaired by Dr L Murugan, minister of state for information and broadcasting, at Kartavya Bhawan-2. The 57th edition of IFFI will be held in Goa from November 20 to 28, 2026.

Murugan called for greater opportunities for students, emerging filmmakers and lesser-known talent from India’s film industry. He said the festival should give young creators opportunities to showcase their work, learn from established filmmakers and connect with the international film community.

He also called for stronger international outreach, including bringing acclaimed films and leading creative professionals from around the world to India.

Focus on mentorship and masterclasses

Murugan stressed the need to expand masterclasses, structured interactions with established filmmakers and mentorship programmes for young and emerging talent.

He also highlighted the importance of showcasing the diversity of Indian cinema while creating more opportunities for international collaboration and professional exchange.

The minister said the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, under the leadership of information and broadcasting minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, was taking initiatives to strengthen India’s creative industries and the country’s “Orange Economy”.

The meeting also acknowledged the role played by the Government of Goa in the growth of IFFI. Murugan paid tribute to late Manohar Parrikar, former Goa chief minister, whose vision contributed to establishing the state as an international destination for cinema.

He also appreciated Goa chief minister Pramod Sawant for his continued support for the festival.

IFFI eyes stronger global presence

Chanchal Kumar, secretary, Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, said IFFI should be used as a flagship platform to promote India’s expanding creative economy and strengthen links between Indian and international creative communities.

He also stressed the need to provide filmmakers, delegates, cinephiles and guests with a seamless experience during the festival.

Prakash Magdum, managing director, National Film Development Corporation (NFDC), presented an update on preparations and initiatives for the upcoming edition.

Festival director Ashutosh Gowariker backed the committee’s recommendations, highlighting the need for stronger masterclasses, more opportunities for young filmmakers and a compelling selection of films from India and abroad.

The Secretary, IPR, Government of Goa, also briefed the committee on preparations in the state and assured members that the necessary arrangements would be completed on schedule.

Cinema as a bridge for creative exchange

The steering committee placed particular emphasis on expanding IFFI’s international reach by curating films from across the world and inviting filmmakers, artists and creative professionals from different countries.

The festival is being positioned not only as a celebration of cinema but also as a platform for collaboration, professional exchange and growth of India’s creative economy.

The meeting was attended by senior officials and members of the steering committee, including Bhavna Kher, Ram Sampath, Aparna Purohit, Prerna Singh, Namitha, Suhasini Maniratnam, Abhishek Jain, Santosh Sivan, Gaurav Banerjee, Aditya Bhat, Prashant Chothani and Dharam Gulati.

With less than three months to go, the committee’s focus is clear: make IFFI a bigger launchpad for young Indian talent while giving global cinema a stronger reason to look towards Goa.