Questions Raised Over Inclusion of Goan Films in IFFI Line-up
Panaji: Concerns have been raised regarding the selection of Goan films at the 56th International Film Festival of India (IFFI), following discrepancies between the official festival schedule and claims made by local filmmakers.
The Gala Premieres schedule and red-carpet list, published on IFFI’s official website, does not include any Goan films under the World, Asia or India Premiere sections, nor under Special Showcase. However, producer Rajendra Talak has stated that his Konkani feature film Claudia will be screened as a World Premiere at the festival.
Former Entertainment Society of Goa (ESG) Governing Body Member Vishal Pai Cacode said the contradictory information raises questions about the transparency of the curation process. According to him, both Claudia and the Konkani non-feature film Ancessao were not selected for the Indian Panorama categories. Despite this, Claudia has been invited for a Special Presentation, while Ancessao, which has received two international awards, does not feature in the current schedule.
Pai Cacode said the situation suggests an inconsistency in selection criteria and called for clarity regarding the basis on which films are included in special sections of the festival. He said that clear guidelines and uniform procedures are essential to ensure confidence in the curation process.
He added that any perceived lack of transparency could affect public trust in the festival’s selection mechanisms and emphasised the need for greater openness and adherence to established norms.
