The Bengaluru International Film Festival, popularly known as BIFFes, is set for a significant transformation in its 17th edition. The festival is moving from its long-standing home at Orion Mall to a new venue, Lulu Mall, a decision that has generated buzz among the city's cinephiles. While the change of location is a major talking point, the festival's rich programming, with a strong thematic focus on women's empowerment, promises an engaging cinematic experience.
Why Lulu Mall Replaced Orion Mall as the New Venue
According to Murali PB, the artistic director of the 17th BIFFes, the shift was a strategic decision made after a thorough assessment of infrastructure requirements. While both venues offer 11 screens, the seating capacity differs. PVR at Orion Mall can accommodate 2,650 viewers, whereas Cinepolis at Lulu Mall has a slightly lower capacity of 2,052 seats.
However, the key reason for the move was not screen count. Murali explained that at the previous venue, hosting parallel events like masterclasses or seminars often required blocking up to three screens, directly impacting the film screening schedule. "At Lulu Mall, we have access to a separate space on another floor that can comfortably seat 250 to 300 people for masterclasses, without affecting the screening schedule," he stated. This dedicated space allows for smoother programming and better accommodation of all festival activities.
Celebrating Women's Voices: The 2024 Festival Theme
This year's edition carries a powerful tagline: 'Woman: Shared Sensibilities, A Collective Voice for Equality'. The theme is inspired by the celebrated poem 'Stree Yendare Ashte Saake' (Woman As She Is) by the national poet, Dr GS Shivarudrappa. This focus on women's empowerment will be reflected across the festival's diverse lineup and discussions.
Attendees can look forward to a packed schedule featuring:
- International and world premieres of curated global cinema.
- Interactive masterclasses led by film industry experts.
- Engaging workshops for aspiring filmmakers and enthusiasts.
- Thought-provoking panel discussions on relevant cinematic and social topics.
Navigating Your Way to BIFFes at Lulu Mall
With the venue change, accessibility is a key consideration for the organizers. As there is no direct Metro connection to Lulu Mall, the festival team is considering the introduction of shuttle services for commuters from the Krantiveera Sangolli Rayanna railway station to the mall. For those travelling by bus, the access is more straightforward, as a bus stop is located right outside the venue, making it a relatively convenient option.
The move to Lulu Mall marks a new chapter for BIFFes, aiming to enhance the overall experience for delegates and film lovers. By solving logistical challenges and centering its narrative on a compelling social theme, the 17th Bengaluru International Film Festival is poised to be a landmark event in India's cultural calendar.
