The 56th International Film Festival of India (IFFI), organised by the National Film Development Corporation (NFDC) under the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, was held in Panaji, Goa from November 20 to 28, 2025. The festival presented more than 240 films from 81 countries, including 13 world premieres, 5 international premieres, and 44 Asian premieres. The festival opened with The Blue Trail (2025 dystopian drama) by Brazilian director Gabriel Mascaro. Japan was the 'Country of Focus' presenting six curated titles; Spain was the Partner Country and Australia the Spotlight Country. The 56th IFFI paid a heartfelt tribute to legendary Bollywood actor Dharmendra, honouring his immense contribution to Indian cinema. Indian film director Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra served as chairperson of the International Jury. The 19th Film Bazaar (November 20–24) ran alongside the festival. The festival featured 21 masterclasses. IFFI was established in 1952 — making it one of the oldest and most prestigious film festivals in Asia — and is conducted annually in Goa since 2004. It provides a platform for cross-cultural exchange, promotes Indian cinema globally, and supports independent and emerging filmmakers. Rajasthan connection: IFFI serves as a major platform for Rajasthan's film tourism, as the state's iconic desert landscape, forts, and palaces (Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, Udaipur) attract Bollywood and international productions. The Rajasthan Film Tourism Policy actively markets the state as a film shooting destination.
56th IFFI 2025: International Film Festival of India Concludes in Goa; Tribute to Dharmendra, Japan as Country of Focus
The 56th International Film Festival of India (IFFI), organised by the National Film Development Corporation (NFDC) under the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, was held in Panaji, Goa from November 20 to 28, 2025. The festival presented more than 240 films from 81 countries, including 13 world premieres, 5 international premieres, and 44 Asian premieres. The festival opened with The Blue Trail (2025 dystopian drama) by Brazilian director Gabriel Mascaro. Japan was the 'Country of Focus' presenting six curated titles; Spain was the Partner Country and Australia the Spotlight Country. The 56th IFFI paid a heartfelt tribute to legendary Bollywood actor Dharmendra, honouring his immense contribution to Indian cinema. Indian film director Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra served as chairperson of the International Jury. The 19th Film Bazaar (November 20–24) ran alongside the festival. The festival featured 21 masterclasses. IFFI was established in 1952 — making it one of the oldest and most prestigious film festivals in Asia — and is conducted annually in Goa since 2004. It provides a platform for cross-cultural exchange, promotes Indian cinema globally, and supports independent and emerging filmmakers. Rajasthan connection: IFFI serves as a major platform for Rajasthan's film tourism, as the state's iconic desert landscape, forts, and palaces (Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, Udaipur) attract Bollywood and international productions. The Rajasthan Film Tourism Policy actively markets the state as a film shooting destination.
Key facts
- The 56th IFFI was held in Panaji, Goa from November 20 to 28, 2025.
- Over 240 films from 81 countries were screened including 13 world premieres.
- Japan was the 'Country of Focus' while Spain was the Partner Country.
- Bollywood legend Dharmendra was honoured with a heartfelt tribute at the festival.
- IFFI was established in 1952 and is one of Asia's oldest and most prestigious film festivals.
- The 19th Film Bazaar ran alongside IFFI from November 20 to 24.
Mains angle
Q: Discuss the 56th IFFI 2025's role in promoting cross-cultural exchange and India's soft power through cinema.
Answer (50 words):
Held in Panaji from November 20-28, 2025, the 56th IFFI screened over 240 films from 81 countries with 13 world premieres. Japan was Country of Focus; Spain the Partner Country. The festival honoured Dharmendra, hosted 21 masterclasses, and ran the 19th Film Bazaar, reinforcing cultural diplomacy since IFFI's 1952 establishment.
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When and where was the 56th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) held in 2025?
The 56th International Film Festival of India was held in Goa from 20 to 28 November 2025. Official IFFI and PIB material identify Goa as the venue and confirm the 20-28 November schedule, so option A is correct.
Source: NFDC / PIB / Wikipedia / India TV News / GeniusWindow / National Film Awards
Frequently asked questions
When and where was the 56th IFFI held, and which organisation organises it?
The 56th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) was held from November 20 to 28, 2025 in Panaji, Goa. It is organised by the National Film Development Corporation (NFDC) under the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Government of India. IFFI was established in 1952 and is one of Asia's oldest and most prestigious film festivals.
Which country was the 'Country of Focus' at the 56th IFFI 2025 and what does that designation mean?
Japan was the 'Country of Focus' at the 56th IFFI 2025. This designation means that a curated section of Japanese films — including classics, contemporary works, and retrospectives — was featured prominently to celebrate that country's cinematic heritage and foster cultural exchange. Spain was the 'Partner Country' and Australia was the 'Spotlight Country'.
What tribute was paid to Bollywood legend Dharmendra at IFFI 2025?
Veteran Bollywood actor Dharmendra was honoured with a heartfelt tribute at the 56th IFFI for his decades-long contribution to Indian cinema. Known for iconic films spanning action, romance, and comedy, Dharmendra represents a golden era of Bollywood. Such tributes at IFFI recognise artists whose work has shaped India's cultural identity.
What is the Film Bazaar and how does it relate to IFFI?
The Film Bazaar is South Asia's biggest film market co-located with IFFI, designed to promote co-productions, distribution deals, and networking for independent filmmakers from South Asia. The 19th Film Bazaar ran alongside the 56th IFFI from November 20 to 24, 2025, providing a platform for pitching, sales, and collaboration between Indian and international cinema professionals.
What is the significance of IFFI for India's film industry and soft power?
IFFI is India's most prestigious international film festival and a platform for showcasing Indian cinema globally while bringing world cinema to Indian audiences. Established in 1952, it reflects India's film diplomacy and cultural soft power. By hosting 240+ films from 81 countries and world premieres, IFFI promotes cross-cultural dialogue and positions India as a major global hub for cinema.
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