Waheeda Rehman inaugurates 40th international film fest

Panaji, Nov 23 : Legendary actress Waheeda Rehman inaugurated the 40th edition of the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) here Monday by lighting the lamp at a glittering function here.

The actress, who in the past captivated audiences with her spellbinding performances in movies like "Pyaasa", "Kagaz ke Phool" and in more recent times "Rang de Basanti" and "Delhi 6", wished the newest edition of IFFI well.

"Hope everyone will enjoy and see films from all over the world," she said.

Speaking on the occasion, Information and Broadcasting Minister Ambika Soni said she is film buff and also urged everyone to relish the bouquet of films offered at the fest.

"India has one of the most vibrant cinema industries in the world with more than 1000 movies being made in different languages," Soni said, adding that the country is emerging as an entertainment superpower.

The minister also said people should strive to make IFFI one of the best film festivals in the world.

"Films in India are the most accessible and available form of entertainment. We have to take IFFI to the people. We have to make IFFI one of the best film festivals in the world, on par with other celebrated festivals at Cannes, Toronto," she said, stressing on the need to make Goa a film activity hub.

Goa Chief Minister Digambar Kamat said: "IFFI has gone from strength to strength each year. This year we have tried to reach out to the common man by involving people into the T-20 event."

He was referring to the T20 of Indian Cinema contest, which is being oragnised at the fest and invites film lovers to rate the top 20 movies of Indian cinema.

Kamat also thanked Soni for lending her support to start Goa celluloid segment, which will showcase movies shot in the state.

Chinese historical drama "Wheat" was the inaugural film.