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The Communiqué News

Announcement of 'Work in Progress' (WIP), 'Film Bazaar Recommends' (FBR), and 'Student Producer Workshop Pitch Awards' at Film Bazaar 2024


French Institute of India Honoured for Its Continued Efforts in Promoting French Delegates' Participation in Film Bazaar


Acclaimed Casting Director Mukesh Chhabra Announces Collaboration with Film Bazaar on Two Co-Production Market Projects


Swati Bhat

18th edition of NFDC film bazaar

Film Bazaar 2024, held as part of the 55th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in Goa, concluded on a high note, celebrating cinematic innovation and global collaboration. Organized by the National Film Development Corporation (NFDC), the event brought together industry leaders, emerging filmmakers, and international partners to foster creativity and new ventures in the film industry.

Key highlights at the Film Bazaar during the International Film Festival of India included Mukesh Chhabra’s announcement of his collaboration of two projects in Co-Production Market (CPM) projects, offering his casting expertise at no cost. Film Bazaar also unveiled new partnerships with Final Draft, Film Independent Episodic Writing Workshop, and SAAVA & ATF IP Accelerator.

The Work in Progress (WIP) Awards recognized films like Kaatti Ri Raatti: Hunter’s Moon and Shape of Momo with significant post-production support. In the Film Bazaar Recommends (FBR) category, three films received Rs. 3 lakh in sponsorship and promotional benefits. Deadly Dosas by Anusree Kelat won the Student Producer Workshop Pitch Award.

The newly introduced Co-Production Market Feature Cash Grants saw Kurinji (The Disappearing Flower) win First Prize. The French Institute of India was honoured for its role in promoting French participation. The event closed with a teaser for WAVES 2025, setting the stage for another year of ground-breaking achievements in Film Bazaar.







The Central Bureau of Communication (CBC) under the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Government of India, is organizing Safarnama - a Multimedia Exhibition. The event will also feature a display of India's rich cultural diversity through performances by artists from the Song & Drama division, at Kala Academy, Panaji, Goa.


Pritish Bagdi

IFFiesta: Celebrating Art & Culture at the 55th International Film Festival of India with 110 Artists from Pan India

On a momentous occasion at the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) 2024, the esteemed Secretary of the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Shri Sanjay Jaju, joined forces with the renowned film actor and producer, Akkineni Nagarjuna Rao, to officially inaugurate a captivating multimedia exhibition entitled ‘Safarnama: Evolution of Indian Cinema’.

This exhibition is a significant tribute to the rich and diverse history of Indian cinema, showcasing its remarkable journey from its inception to the present day. The event attracted a wide array of attendees, including industry professionals, film enthusiasts, and cultural scholars, all eager to explore the intricate narrative that Indian cinema has woven over the decades.

The exhibition features an impressive collection of artefacts, photographs, and audio-visual presentations that vividly illustrate the evolution of filmmaking techniques, storytelling styles, and the socio-cultural impact of films on Indian society. Shri Sanjay Jaju expressed his excitement about the exhibition, emphasizing the importance of recognizing and celebrating the contributions of Indian cinema to the global film landscape.

He highlighted how the exhibition serves not only as a historical archive but also as an educational platform for the younger generation to understand the artistic and cultural significance of cinema in India.

Meanwhile, Akkineni Nagarjuna Rao, a stalwart in the Indian film industry, shared his personal reflections on the transformative power of cinema and its ability to transcend boundaries, uniting people from various backgrounds through shared stories and emotions.

His presence at the inauguration underscored the deep connection between the past and present of Indian cinema, as he himself has been a pivotal figure in its evolution over the years. The exhibition ‘Safarnama: Evolution of Indian Cinema’ is not just a display of cinematic milestones; it is a celebration of the artistry, innovation, and resilience of filmmakers and actors who have shaped the industry.

It invites visitors to embark on a journey through time, experiencing the magic of Indian cinema and its enduring legacy, making it a must-visit attraction at IFFI 2024.


What is IFFiesta?

The 55th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) 2024 kicked off with a bang, unveiling IFFIESTA, an extraordinary entertainment extravaganza, from 21st November to 28th November at the stunning Kala Academy in Panjim, Goa! This festival is a vibrant celebration of films, music, art, and food, uniting communities through an enchanting blend of culture and entertainment. The Entertainment Arena in and around Kala Academy is buzzing with excitement, especially for the youth. As part of the IFFIESTA, a dazzling Carnival Parade celebrating the ‘Journey of Indian Cinema’ took place on 22nd November.






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‘Manjummel Boys’: A True Story of Friendship and Bravery Takes Centre Stage at 55th IFFI


Swati Bhat

The Malayalam rescue drama 'Manjummel Boys' captivated audiences as it was featured in the Indian Panorama section of the 55th International Film Festival of India (IFFI). During Day 6 of the event, the film’s director, Shri Chidambaram, addressed the media at a press conference held at the PIB Media Centre in Goa.

The film is inspired by a real-life incident involving a group of 11 young men from Manjummel, a village near Kochi, Kerala. The team visited the Guna Caves in Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu, where they encountered a life-threatening situation. One member fell into a deep pit within the cave, and despite efforts from local authorities, it was Siju David, a fellow team member, who bravely rescued his friend, undertaking a daring mission to save him. The incident, marked by friendship and selflessness, highlights the courage of these young men.

Chidambaram shared that the story was well-known, but previous attempts to make a film about it were unsuccessful due to the industry's reluctance. However, with the rise of OTT platforms, such stories now have more opportunities to be told. He also spoke about the challenges of recreating the Guna Cave in a Kochi warehouse, wishing he could convey its scent on screen, emphasizing the cave as the true protagonist of the film.





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