The stage is set for the cinematic celebration in India's tech capital. The much-anticipated Bengaluru International Film Festival (BIFF) has officially announced its dates for the upcoming edition. The festival will illuminate the city's cultural scene from January 29 to February 6, 2026.
Eligibility Criteria for Feature Films
Filmmakers and producers are now invited to submit their work for consideration. The festival has laid out specific criteria for feature fiction films. To be eligible, a film must have been produced between January 1, 2025, and December 31, 2025. The primary language of the film should be Kannada or any dialect native to Karnataka, celebrating the state's rich linguistic diversity.
Furthermore, the festival mandates a minimum duration of 70 minutes for feature film entries. This ensures a platform for substantial narrative storytelling that represents the contemporary cinematic voice of the region.
A Platform for Regional Cinema
The Bengaluru International Film Festival serves as a crucial platform for showcasing the artistic and narrative prowess of Karnataka's film industry. By focusing on films produced within a single calendar year (2025), BIFF aims to present the freshest and most current works to its audience and international delegates.
This initiative not only promotes regional cinema but also fosters a competitive and vibrant environment for local filmmakers to gain recognition on a global stage hosted within their own city.
What This Means for the Film Community
The announcement kickstarts the submission process, giving production houses and independent creators a clear timeline. With the festival dates set for late January and early February, it positions BIFF as a key early-year event in India's cultural calendar. The focus on Kannada and Karnataka dialects underscores the festival's commitment to its roots while operating within an international framework.
Film enthusiasts in Bengaluru and beyond can now mark their calendars for a nine-day extravaganza of movies, discussions, and cinematic exchange. The festival is expected to draw crowds, critics, and cinema lovers, contributing significantly to the city's reputation as a hub for both technology and arts.
