International
Filmart witnesses record attendance
HONG KONG: Filmart continues to grow exponentially both in terms of scope and visitor numbers. After over 1,000 visitors passed through the gates on the opening day, a total of 1,867 people had registered their presence by the end of Day 2.
The first day itself saw a three-fold increase over 2004 and the second day’s numbers were within touching distance of the total turnout last year – 2,286.
The number of European visitors, particularly from France and Netherlands, went up by 20 per cent, while those from Asia-Pacific countries such as Japan, South Korea and Australia also came in record numbers.
The other notable aspect of Filmart 2005 was the debut of the UK Film Council at this year’s event heading a trade mission delegation of eight UK sales and distribution companies.
International
Russia-India cinematic spectacle Persimmon of My Love set for grand Moscow debut
Hindi cinema style musical revives Indo-Soviet cinema ties for today
MUMBAI: A new chapter in cross-border storytelling is set to unfold as Persimmon of My Love gears up for its premiere in Moscow on 1 April 2026, marking the first large-scale cinematic collaboration between Russia and India in decades.
Positioned as a modern nod to the cultural exchange that once brought Indian classics to Soviet audiences, the film blends Hindi cinema flair with Russian storytelling, aiming to rekindle a long-standing cinematic friendship.
Directed by Marius Weisberg, the musical comedy follows two brothers navigating a lively world of music, family and romance. The lead roles are played by Demis Karibidis and Mikhail Galustyan, with Karibidis also contributing as a screenwriter.
Shot entirely in India, the production leans heavily into Hindi cinema style spectacle. Filming took place across Mumbai studios and the cities of Udaipur and Jodhpur, whose architecture was used to create the fictional setting of Khurmada. A crew of over 350 worked on the project, with large-scale sequences featuring up to 1,000 extras.
The film also brings Indian creative talent into the mix. Dance sequences are choreographed by Jay Kumar, while music by Zurab Matua features songs in both Hindi and Russian, adding to its cross-cultural appeal.
Backed by TNT channel, MyWayStudio and the Russian Cinema Fund, the project reflects a broader push to strengthen cultural ties between the two countries.
With its mix of colour, comedy and cross-border collaboration, Persimmon of My Love is not just a film release but a reminder that cinema, much like music, travels well across borders.
