A film is a visual work of art that relays an idea and communicates feelings. Watching a film is often akin to experiencing the story of someone other than yourself. Therefore, this medium of art has become hugely popular and profitable. While it has also courted several controversies, it is undeniable that films or cinema have become a legit form of artistic expression. Honouring this art form has led to a rise in film festivals the world over.
Some international film festivals, like the Cannes film festival, generate immense interest among those watching the glittering celebrities with their “Cannes look” from home. Indeed, an entirely new culture has been generated where fashion and film are celebrated!
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With the advent of social media and smartphones with great cameras, film-making and storytelling have become democratised in a way never seen before. India, already a diverse country has come to signify a diverse film industry which is not just limited to Bollywood. Bollywood alongside regional cinema has started getting popular because of its fresh perspective and unique storytelling. Hence, to celebrate this art form in all its diversity, many film festivals in India have popped up. Read on to know what they are and start planning to attend them if you are a true fan.
Some popular Film Festivals in India are-
1. Kolkata Film Festival
The annual Kolkata Film Festival was started in 1995, and it is the third oldest film festival in the world! The Bengali film culture has seen stalwarts like Satyajit Ray, Ritwik Ghatak, and Mrinal Sen. It is with their contribution and success that the Kolkata Film Festival gained the stature it now has. Filmmakers can submit their films for the competition before the festival begins on the festival’s official website. There are multiple categories for which the filmmakers can submit.
Share the Kolkata Joy for films and art at this festival and make sure to book your tickets and your accommodation at our Treebo Hotels in advance!
2. Mumbai Film Festival
The Mumbai Film Festival, also known as the MAMI film festival, is a popular annual event in Mumbai. The festival began in 1997 and has since upheld the highest standards of filmmaking. This festival takes place every year in Mumbai, the city of dreams and the home of Bollywood. Prestigious filmmakers and actors are at the helm of affairs here, and the festival has gone international as well!
The event has gone beyond a few days and holds programmes all year round! Make sure to participate by booking your tickets and staying at Treebo Hotels in Mumbai.
3. Pune Film Festival
The Pune Film Festival happens annually in the glorious city of Pune. It is open to the public, and filmmakers can submit their films across various categories. This film festival in India celebrates filmmaking and everything related to it. Each edition of the festival is centred around a new theme and a variety of films are shown to give representation to every type of voice. Join in the celebration, and be sure to book Treebo Hotels for your stay.
4. Goa Film Festival
The Goa Film Festival is also known as the International Film Festival of India. One of the oldest organisations, it began in 1952. The goal has been to showcase and expose Indian audiences to cinema from the world over while also giving voice to those at home. The festival is held in collaboration with the Government, and they give out awards at the end across various categories as well. A vibrant celebration of the world of cinema, this festival is a must-visit!
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5. Rajasthan Film Festival
The Rajasthan Film Festival is also known as the Rajasthan International Film Festival or RIFF and is organised by the RIFF Club, which is a Non-Profit Organisation. This film festival is held every year in Rajasthan and showcases a variety of films to aid the exchange of ideas and stories of those whose voices are not often heard. Screenings of films and discussions with eminent personalities from the world of films are the norm, one that should not be missed at any cost! Be sure to book a comfortable stay in Treebo for this event.
6. Dharamshala Film Festival
Dharamshala Film Festival, or Dharamshala International Film Festival (DIFF), is a beautiful affair in the charming town of McLoedganj, Dharamshala. The festival was started to bring the art of filmmaking to this small town and encourage the local talent into the process. A leading independent festival, it has garnered wide attention and praise for its endeavours. Several works of various artists across the world are showcased, and a few of them make it to the festival to provide their insights into the art.
Great films and picturesque views, what more could one ask for?
7. Kerela Film Festival
The Kerela Film Festival is known as the International Film Festival of Kerela, which is held annually in the capital city of Thiruvananthapuram. Festival-goers are in for a treat as they can enjoy great cinema alongside the rich culture of the state. It began years ago in 1996 and since then has held an important position in the film industry of the state. With its screening of the choicest films and platform for giving voice to great stories, the film festival has proved its mettle. Do attend if you happen to visit Kerela during the season and make sure to book a stay in Treebo.
Everybody loves a good story, but what is of essential importance is the art of storytelling. Film festivals are a platform to honour this art which does not come easily to everyone. Go hear some of them and bring home the wondrous tales heard!