
International Film Festival Delhi inaugurated by CM
The Hindu
Delhi's inaugural International Film Festival showcases over 125 films, promoting the capital as a global film hub.
Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on Wednesday inaugurated the first edition ofInternational Film Festival Delhi at Bharat Mandapam. She said that through this initiative, the Capital is securing its place on the global film map and moving forward alongside major film hubs like Mumbai, Pune, and Goa.
The festival, scheduled from March 25 to 31, will showcase more than 125 Indian and international films. The inaugural ceremony ended with the screening of the opening film Sirât, directed by Óliver Laxe which won the Jury Prize in the 78th Cannes Film Festival.
Speaking at the event, Ms. Gupta said the festival marked an important step in strengthening Delhi’s presence in the global film industry. “Delhi has long been a centre of art, culture and creativity, and this festival reflects that legacy,” she said. She added that cinema connects people across languages and borders and helps bring different perspectives together.
Ms. Gupta said the government intends to develop the festival as a long-term initiative to promote film tourism and create opportunities for young filmmakers. She said platforms such as CineXchange would allow emerging talent to present their work to international audiences.
Art, Culture and Tourism Minister Kapil Mishra said the launch of the festival was an important step in strengthening Delhi’s cultural presence globally. “This initiative will help establish Delhi not only as an administrative centre but also as a hub for art, culture and tourism,” he said.
Itl will include gala screenings, masterclasses, panel discussions and workshops. Interactive sessions with actors including Manoj Bajpayee, Anupam Kher, and Piyush Mishra are scheduled during the event.













