Bengaluru is set to host its premier cinematic event, the 17th Bengaluru International Film Festival (BIFFes), from January 29 to February 6, 2025. Announced after a preparatory meeting chaired by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, this edition promises a rich tapestry of global and Indian cinema with a special thematic focus.
Star Ambassador and Grand Inauguration
Chief Minister Siddaramaiah revealed that the versatile actor, director, and producer Prakash Raj has been appointed as the brand ambassador for the festival's 17th edition. The inaugural ceremony will be a spectacular affair, held on the grand steps in front of the iconic Vidhana Soudha, marking a prestigious start to the nine-day event.
This year, the festival will pivot around the central theme of women's empowerment, reflecting a commitment to narratives that champion gender equality and female voices in filmmaking.
A Global Cinematic Feast in the City
BIFFes 2025 is scaling up to present a mammoth selection of films. Audiences can expect over 200 films from 60 countries, with more than 400 screenings scheduled across multiple venues. The main hub will be Cinepolis in Lulu Mall, Rajajinagar, utilizing 11 screens. Additional screenings will be held at Dr Rajkumar Bhavana, Kalavidara Sangha in Chamarajapet, and Suchitra Film Society in Banashankari.
The competitive sections for Asian, Indian, and Kannada cinema have already opened for submissions and have received a strong response, with more than 110 films submitted so far. The deadline for entries is December 31.
Curated Highlights and International Collaborations
The festival's lineup will be a cinephile's delight, featuring award-winners and official selections from the world's most prestigious festivals. Films that have graced or won awards at Cannes, Berlin, Venice, Karlovy Vary, Locarno, Rotterdam, Busan, and Toronto will be screened. Notably, films shortlisted for the Academy Awards (Oscars) from various countries will also be part of the program.
International cultural institutions are playing a key role in curating content. Collaborations with the Polish Institute New Delhi, Goethe-Institut/Max Mueller Bhavan Bengaluru, Alliance Française de Bangalore, and the Royal Thailand Consulate will facilitate special screenings from their respective nations.
As part of special segments, a retrospective of celebrated Polish filmmaker Andrzej Wajda will be organised in collaboration with the Polish Institute to mark his birth centenary. Furthermore, the Alliance Française de Bangalore will jointly present a special series documenting the history of African cinema.
Beyond Screenings: Academic Programs and Exhibitions
To cater to the academic interests of delegates, a special venue at the main festival centre will host the festival's academic programmes. Additionally, a photography exhibition tracing the 91-year journey of the Kannada film industry will be organised at the venue, offering a visual treat for history enthusiasts.
The state government has allocated a grant of Rs 7 crore for organising this grand edition. The festival will conclude with a closing ceremony where awards for the best films in competitive categories and a lifetime achievement award will be presented.
