IFFI 2025 to Celebrate Dharmendra’s Legacy at Closing Ceremony Following His Passing
The 56th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in Goa is set to honor the late Dharmendra, a legendary figure in Indian cinema, during its closing ceremony later this week. The beloved actor, who passed away at the age of 89, was remembered with a moment of silence at the festival’s Film Bazaar segment. In a heartfelt tribute, festival officials confirmed that a special homage will be included in the closing events, celebrating Dharmendra’s lasting impact on the film industry.
Tribute to a Cinematic Legend
Prakash Magdum, the Managing Director of the National Film Development Corporation (NFDC), expressed the festival’s commitment to honoring Dharmendra’s legacy. He described the actor as a “beloved legend” whose work has touched audiences across generations. The closing ceremony will feature a dedicated homage to Dharmendra, reflecting on his significant contributions to Indian cinema. This tribute comes shortly after the actor’s passing, highlighting the profound impact he had on the industry and his fans.
Cancellation of ‘Sholay’ Screening
As part of the festival’s programming, a much-anticipated 4K screening of Dharmendra’s iconic film, *Sholay*, scheduled for November 26, has been canceled due to “technical reasons.” Despite this setback, IFFI will still celebrate the film’s legacy with a special session titled “50 Years of Sholay: Why Sholay Still Resonates?” This event, set for November 27, will feature insights from the film’s director, Ramesh Sippy, ensuring that the film’s enduring popularity is acknowledged.
Iconic Motorcycle Display
In a fitting tribute to Dharmendra, the festival has also showcased the iconic motorcycle with a sidecar from *Sholay*, which features prominently in the memorable song “Yeh Dosti.” This motorcycle, a BSA WM20 originally designed for military use, has been displayed in a glass enclosure at the INOX theatre in Panjim since the festival began. Visitors have been drawn to the exhibit, reminiscing about Dharmendra’s on-screen charisma and camaraderie with Amitabh Bachchan. Accompanying information reveals that the five-minute song sequence took an impressive 21 days to film, further emphasizing the film’s significance in Indian cinema.
Continuing the Celebration
The festival’s efforts to honor Dharmendra extend beyond the closing ceremony and the motorcycle display. The special session on *Sholay* aims to engage audiences in discussions about the film’s cultural impact and its relevance even after five decades. As IFFI continues, it serves as a reminder of Dharmendra’s contributions to the film industry and the lasting memories he created for fans around the world.
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