from Lenny Barretto in Panaji
for Daijiworld Media Network - Goa (MB)
Panaji, Oct 26: The month of November and December have two festivals in Goa, especially Panaji. One is Diwali, which is celebrated all over India, and the other, International film festival of India (IFFI), a fiesta of films.
While both the festivals are equally enjoyed by Goans, the IFFI always comes with much expectation. The festival, which was first held in Goa in 2004 and an annual event ever since, has always remained a point of debate in the state.
Let alone the political controversies that surround this festival, even common people and filmmakers as well discuss this festival depending on their expectations. Till last year, the extra dose of Bollywood was something being hated by the regional filmmakers.
Long hours of wait for the Bollywood bigwigs to come, avoidable expenditure on the Bollywood personalities and many other things that happen during this ten-day festival is something righteously objected to by the regional filmmakers.
Film festival is a very serious affair. Cinema is the focal point for the entire event. It is also well known and accepted fact that Bollywood makes up for just a part of Indian cinema. Contribution of regional filmmakers especially south Indian filmmakers cannot be undermined.
So, when they come down here, they feel insulted because most of the attention and glamour is hogged by Bollywood. At times, many veteran filmmakers do not get the proper focus and respect they deserve.
Thankfully, this time, the Entertainment Society of Goa, has decided to give enough space for local and regional talents in the festival.
We will have to sit with our fingers crossed to see whether the IFFI 2007 will really give platform to local talents or will repeat the history.
Run-up to IFFI 2007:
IFFI 2006 Sidelights:
Run-up to IFFI 2006 - from Daijiworld's Archives: