News Headline
Jagran Film Festival 2023: Iconic retrospective of Indian & International cinema
Mumbai: The much-awaited Jagran Film Festival (JFF) is all set to return with its eleventh edition, bringing together a captivating blend of Indian and international cinema retrospectives. Presented by Rajnigandha in association with the Government of Uttar Pradesh, this year’s festival promises to be a grand celebration of the world of cinema.
The festival will feature two leading luminaries namely esteemed global actor Anupam Kher representing the Indian cinematic retrospective; and Oscar nominated film director and producer Majid Majidi representing International cinematic retrospective. With a career spanning over several decades, Kher has established himself as one of the most versatile and acclaimed performers in the Indian film industry. This retrospective aims to honor his remarkable journey by celebrating his outstanding performances that have left an indelible mark on Indian and International cinema. During the festival’s grand opening, Kher will captivate the audience with a heartfelt conversation about the present state of the film industry. This insightful discussion will follow the screening of his much-anticipated and yet-to-be-released masterpiece, “The Signature.” Notably, the film will have its world premiere at JFF under Indian opening film, where Kher plays the central role as the main protagonist.
Sharing his excitement about attending the Jagran Film Festival, Kher said, “It brings me immense pleasure to be a part of the Jagran Film Festival, where I can not only share the captivating Indian retrospective of cinema but also represent my film The Signature as an opening film on such an incredible platform. Through such platforms, the industry aims not only to emphasize the significance of Indian cinema but also to discuss the imperative need for better storytelling for aspiring filmmakers.”
In this edition of the JFF, audiences will be treated to a truly extraordinary experience of storytelling, as it features a distinctive narrative style that is sure to provoke thought and captivate the imagination. Majidi, a highly esteemed and globally renowned figure in the realm of global cinema, has firmly established himself as a creative force to be reckoned with. As a means of paying tribute to his remarkable contributions to the world of filmmaking, the festival is proud to present a retrospective of his work, allowing viewers to delve deeply into the realm of his extraordinary artistry and filmography.
Speaking on the current scenario of the global film industry, Majidi said, “I am delighted and honored to have been invited to the prestigious Jagran Film Festival. It’s a wonderful opportunity for me to share the international retrospective of cinema and delve into the current scenario of the global film industry. As we navigate the ever-evolving landscape of cinema, it is essential to explore the emerging realm of OTT platforms and the global recognition bestowed upon films.”
Jagran Prakashan Ltd Senior VP – strategy and brand development Basant Rathore said, “This year’s Jagran Film Festival promises to be a mesmerizing ode to cinema! We are thrilled to celebrate the phenomenal work of Anupam Kher in Indian retrospective and Majid Majidi in international retrospective, two cinematic luminaries whose artistry transcends borders and inspires audiences around the world. Join us for an unforgettable cinematic journey at the Jagran Film Festival!”!
The world’s largest traveling film festival begins from 3 August 2023, starting from Delhi to Mumbai, and many places in between including Kanpur, Lucknow, Prayagraj, Varanasi, Gorakhpur, Bareilly, Dehradun, Hisar, Gurgaon, Ludhiana, Patna, Darbhanga, Ranchi, Raipur, Indore, and Siliguri. All the entries must be submitted latest by 1st September 2023 on the official website www.jff.co.in.
NEW DELHI: Hamdard Laboratories gathered a cross-section of India’s achievers in New Delhi on Friday, handing out the Hakeem Abdul Hameed Excellence Awards to figures who have left their mark across healthcare, education, sport, public service and the arts.
The ceremony, attended by minister of state for defence Sanjay Seth and senior officials from the ministry of Ayush, celebrated individuals whose work blends professional success with a sense of public purpose. It was as much a roll call of achievement as it was a reminder that influence is not measured only in profits or podiums, but in people reached and lives improved.
Among the headline awardees was Alakh Pandey, founder and chief executive of PhysicsWallah, recognised for turning affordable digital learning into a mass movement. On the sporting front, Arjuna Awardee and kabaddi player Sakshi Puniya was honoured for her contribution to the game and for pushing women’s participation onto bigger stages.
The cultural spotlight fell on veteran lyricist and poet Santosh Anand, whose songs have echoed across generations of Hindi cinema. At 97, Anand accepted the honour with characteristic humility, reflecting on a life shaped by perseverance and hope.
Healthcare honours spanned both modern and traditional systems. Manoj N. Nesari was recognised for strengthening Ayurveda’s place in national and global health frameworks. Padma shri Mohammed Abdul Waheed was honoured for his research-backed work in Unani medicine, while padma shri Mohsin Wali received recognition for his long-standing contribution to patient-centred care.
Education and social development also featured prominently. Padma shri Zahir Ishaq Kazi was honoured for decades of work in education, while former Meghalaya superintendent of Police T. C. Chacko was recognised for public service. Goonj founder Anshu Gupta received an award for his dignity-centred rural development initiatives, and the Hunar Shakti Foundation was honoured for empowering women and young girls through skill development.
The Lifetime Achievement Award went to former IAS officer Shailaja Chandra for her long career in public healthcare and governance, particularly in the traditional systems under Ayush.
Speaking at the event, Hamdard chairman Abdul Majeed said the awards were a tribute to those who combine excellence with empathy. “These awardees reflect Hakeem Sahib’s belief that healthcare, education and public service must ultimately serve humanity,” he said.
Minister Seth struck a forward-looking note, saying India’s young population gives the country a unique opportunity to become a global destination for learning, health and wellness by 2047.
The ceremony also featured the trailer launch of Unani Ki Kahaani, an upcoming documentary starring actor Jim Sarbh, set to premiere on Discovery on 11 February.
Instituted in memory of Unani scholar and educationist Hakeem Abdul Hameed, the awards have grown into a national platform that celebrates those building a more inclusive and resilient India. For one evening at least, the spotlight was not just on success, but on service with substance.
