Celebrating Diversity at IFFI 2024
The 55th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) showcased the rich tapestry of Indian cinema on November 25, 2024. This year’s festival highlighted the diversity of storytelling through a Tamil non-feature film, a Hindi documentary, and a Kannada feature film. These films not only entertained but also sparked important conversations about social issues and cultural heritage. The press conference held during the festival provided insights into each film’s unique narrative and the creative minds behind them.
A Glimpse into “Sivantha Mann”
“Samantha Mann,” a Tamil non-feature film, tells a poignant story rooted in the agricultural struggles of Tamil Nadu. The film follows Ranjitham, a poor mother working as a farm laborer. Alongside her two co-workers, she faces the harsh realities of life while striving to fund her daughter’s education. The narrative sheds light on the feudal mentality that still exists in rural India, particularly how it affects women’s lives.
Director Infant emphasized the film’s focus on women’s issues. He expressed his desire to amplify the voices of women who often face societal suppression. “The society still wants to suppress the voice of females,” he stated during the press conference. His hope is that Ranjitham’s journey will inspire women to stand up for their rights. The film’s cinematographer, Easwaren Karthikeyan, and other crew members also attended the event, showcasing the collaborative effort behind this impactful project.
Honoring Nida Fazli in “Main Nida”
“Main Nida,” a Hindi documentary, pays tribute to the life and work of the renowned poet and philosopher Nida Fazli. Directed by Atul Pandey, the film explores Fazli’s genius and the lack of recognition he received during his lifetime. Pandey was inspired by Fazli’s ability to write profound poetry in simple language, making it accessible to all.
At the press conference, Pandey lamented how certain poets and artists are often sidelined in the entertainment industry. He shared that he had over 210 hours of footage capturing Fazli’s essence, which was meticulously edited down to a 59-minute documentary. Producer Atul Gangwar, who worked closely with Fazli for two decades, echoed Pandey’s sentiments. He encouraged the audience to read Fazli’s work, stating, “His poems will change one’s outlook on life.” Malti Joshi Fazli, Nida Fazli’s wife, also shared her husband’s philosophy of overcoming life’s struggles by setting aside religious differences.
The Cultural Richness of “Kerebete”
“Kerebete,” a Kannada feature film, immerses viewers in the vibrant culture of the Shimoga district. The film revolves around an annual fishing event known as ‘Kerebete,’ which has deep folk roots. Directed by Rajguru B., the film tells the story of Naga, a fish hunter who dreams of buying land for his future alongside his mother and love interest, Meena.
Lead actor and producer Gowrishankar S R, who portrays Naga, shared insights into the film’s realistic fight sequences. Director Rajguru highlighted the film’s connection to India’s epic Ramayana, making it relatable to a broad audience. He noted the success of stories based on local folklore, citing the hit film “Kantara” as an example. The film’s narrative not only entertains but also preserves and celebrates the cultural heritage of the region. The 55th IFFI has once again proven to be a platform for diverse voices in Indian cinema. Through films like “Sivantha Mann,” “Main Nida,” and “Kerebete,” the festival showcased stories that resonate with audiences on multiple levels. These films not only entertain but also provoke thought and inspire change. As the festival continues, it remains a vital space for filmmakers to share their unique perspectives and celebrate the richness of Indian culture.
Observer Voice is the one stop site for National, International news, Editor’s Choice, Art/culture contents, Quotes and much more. We also cover historical contents. Historical contents includes World History, Indian History, and what happened today. The website also covers Entertainment across the India and World.