Panaji, Oct 18 (IANS): Celebrated Hollywood actress Susan Sarandon and well known Iranian director Majid Majidi could be the star international attractions at the 44th edition of the International Film Festival of India, organisers said Friday.

Speaking to reporters union minister for information and broadcasting Manish Tewari said that Don Sanjani would be the opening film at the festival.

"Susan Sarandon and Majid Majidi have been invited to be members of the festival's jury," Tewari said at a press conference in Panaji.

Tewari was in Goa to oversee the preparations for the festival which is being held in the state annually since 2004.

Festival Director Shankar Mohan said that the festival had received over 650 entries, out of which 216 films from over 70 countries would be screened at the 10-day event which begins Nov 20.

The major highlight of the festival, Shankar said, would be the showcasing of the culture of north east India through films in the regional panorama section.

He also said that apart from cricket celebrities, Indian film personalities like Rekha and Asha Bhosle would be in attendance.

The official also said that nearly 4000 delegates had already been registered by the film festival authorities.