IFFI is prestigious and pride for us: Director Madhur Bhandarkar praises IFFI 2025
Panjim, November 29
Filmmaker Madhur Bhandarkar praised the 56th edition of the International Film Festival of India by calling it a "pride" of the nation.
While talking to the media at the sidelines of IFFI 2025, Madhur Bhandarkar expressed his happiness for the emergence of film festivals in India, saying that he feels "honoured" to attend one of the prestigious film festivals of India, IFFI.
"It's a great honour, and I've been associated with IFFI for many years. It feels good to come here and meet filmmakers, actors, directors and everyone. I'm very happy to be here," said Madhur Bhandarkar.
While describing the importance of film festivals, Bhandarkar said he feels "proud" that such festivals offer a platform to filmmakers across the nation.
"I think the film festival is very important and IFFI is a very prestigious issue for us. It's a pride issue in our country. People make so many films, South Indian, Bengali, Marathi and Hindi cinema. It feels good to come here under the same roof," said Bhandarkar.
He added, "So I feel good to come here, interact and meet people. I get to watch films and learn from them. I get to meet filmmakers who make budgeted films and get to learn from filmmakers who make it."
The 56th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) concluded with the Vietnamese director Ash Mayfair's 'Skin of Youth' taking home the Golden Peacock for Best Feature Film in the international competition.
According to Variety, the film follows the turbulent romance between San, a transgender sex worker seeking gender-affirming surgery, and Nam, an underground cage fighter striving to support his son.
The best director prize went to Indian director Santosh Davakahar for the Marathi thriller 'Gondhal'. Whereas filmmaker Karan Singh Tyagi bagged the Best Debut Director award for the Indian feature film 'Kesari 2' at IFFI 2025.
Ubeimar Rios won the Silver Peacock for best actor (male) for his role in the Colombian film 'A Poet' (Un Poeta), which was directed by Simon Mesa Soto.
While the Silver Peacock for best actor (female) was awarded to Jara Sofija Ostan for the Slovenian film 'Little Trouble Girls'.
— ANI
Reader Comments
While I appreciate IFFI's platform, I wish there was more focus on regional cinema throughout the year, not just during festivals. Many talented filmmakers from smaller industries struggle for recognition. Still, congratulations to all the winners! ðŸ™
Amazing to see Indian talent shining! Santosh Davakahar winning Best Director for 'Gondhal' and Karan Singh Tyagi for debut director - what an achievement for Marathi cinema! 🎉 IFFI truly showcases the best of Indian storytelling.
As someone who attended IFFI this year, the energy was incredible! The mix of international and Indian films was perfectly balanced. Great to see Vietnam's 'Skin of Youth' winning the top prize - truly deserving!
IFFI has come a long way! Remember when it used to be just a small gathering? Now it's competing with international festivals. Bahut badhiya! More power to Indian cinema and our filmmakers. ✨
Love how IFFI celebrates diversity in cinema! From Vietnamese films to Marathi thrillers, it's a true global platform. Hope more young filmmakers get inspired by these achievements. Jai Hind! 🎥
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