The 56th edition of the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) will be held from November 20 to 28, 2025, in Goa, continuing its tradition as South Asia’s only FIAPF-accredited competitive film festival since 1952. With 240 films from 81 countries, this year’s edition promises to be a grand confluence of cultures, storytelling, innovation, and cinematic excellence.
IFFI 2025 also shines a spotlight on international collaboration. Japan takes the title of “Country of Focus”. It will showcase six contemporary films that explore diverse genres and storytelling styles. Spain joins as the Partner Country, and Australia steps in as the Spotlight Country.
The festival mirrors India’s wider ethos of Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat—bringing together diverse creators, audiences and artistic traditions. Whether it is the increasing participation of women-led creative teams, the growing presence of young professionals, or the representation of tribal and indigenous narratives, IFFI offers space to voices that reflect the country’s depth and diversity.
A record 2,314 submissions from 127 countries reflect the festival’s expanding global resonance. The opening film — 'The Blue Trail' by Brazilian auteur Gabriel Mascaro, winner of the Silver Bear Grand Jury Prize at Berlinale 2025 — sets the tone for an edition defined by bold storytelling and cinematic ambition.
The Gala Premieres segment will present 18 titles, including 13 World Premieres, 2 Asia Premieres, 1 India Premiere, and 2 Special Showcase screenings. The red carpet will welcome a distinguished line-up of artists and filmmakers.
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The opening film sets the tone for an edition defined by bold storytelling and cinematic ambition. (Photo courtesy: X@PIB_Panaji)
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The winner of the Golden Peacock will receive a cash prize of ₹40 lakh. (Photo courtesy: X@PIBMumbai)
Celebrating Indian cinema and legends
This year, IFFI honors the centenaries of legendary filmmakers and artists, including Guru Dutt, Raj Khosla, Ritwik Ghatak, P Bhanumathi, Bhupen Hazarika, and Salil Chowdhury. Restored classics like ‘Musafir’ and ‘Subarnarekha’ will give audiences a rare glimpse into the cinematic treasures of the past.
Indian Panorama and emerging voices
The Indian Panorama section continues to be a highlight presenting 25 feature films, 20 non-feature films, and 5 debut features. Tamil film Amaran will open the feature film section while Kakori leads the non-feature lineup. A special “New Horizons” segment will spotlight up to five films that bring fresh perspectives.
Over 50 films directed by women and 50 debut works will be showcased. The festival will also recognize exceptional talent with awards like Best Debut Indian Director (₹5 lakh) and Best Web Series (₹10 lakh).
Learning and connecting
This year, festival-goers can attend 21 masterclasses and panel discussions featuring industry giants such as Vidhu Vinod Chopra, Anupam Kher, Bobby Deol, Aamir Khan, Suhasini Maniratnam, and Sreekar Prasad. Discussions will cover acting, editing, cinematography, visual effects, AI, and the future of storytelling.
Innovation takes center stage
This year, IFFI embraces the future of cinema with the debut of the CinemAI Hackathon, a 48-hour creative sprint where participants use AI tools to conceptualise and produce short films. Winners will receive prizes ranging from ₹1 lakh to ₹4 lakh and their films will premiere at IFFI Goa.
