Guwahati Cine Club Announces 18th International Film Festival from February 13 to 17
The historic Guwahati Cine Club, founded in 1965, is gearing up to present the 18th edition of the International Guwahati Film Festival. This cinematic extravaganza will unfold from February 13 to 17 at the prestigious Kanaklal Baruah Auditorium, located within the state museum in Guwahati's Ambari area.
A Global Cinematic Showcase with Diverse Selections
Over the five-day festival, audiences will be treated to a curated selection of 16 films from across the globe. The international lineup includes compelling entries from countries such as Germany, Russia, Portugal, Iran, Sri Lanka, Brazil, Vietnam, and Montenegro. In addition to these international offerings, the festival will proudly feature films in regional languages including Assamese, Bengali, Bodo, Manipuri, and English, highlighting the rich cultural tapestry of India and beyond.
Special Focus on Manipuri Cinema and Honored Guests
This year's festival places a strong emphasis on Manipuri cinema, with internationally acclaimed filmmaker Aribam Syam Sharma gracing the inaugural event as the chief guest. A special retrospective segment will be dedicated to honoring his immense contributions to Indian cinema. Three of his landmark films will be screened, including the 1990 classic 'Ishanou', which has been selected as the inaugural film. Additionally, his works 'Imagi Ningthem' and 'Sanabi' will be showcased, offering a deep dive into his artistic legacy.
Tributes to Cultural Icons and Premieres
Madhurima Baruah, secretary of the Guwahati Cine Club, shared that this edition is dedicated to two towering cultural figures: the legendary musician and filmmaker Bhupen Hazarika, who was also a founder member of the club, and Assam's cultural icon Zubeen Garg. As a tribute to Zubeen Garg, the festival will screen the 2004 film 'Dinabandhu', directed by Munin Baruah, in which he played a prominent role.
Furthermore, the festival will host the premiere of the Assamese film 'Samarpan', directed by Arup Manna. Filmmaker Rajni Basumatary will attend as guest of honor, with her 2023 film 'Gorai Phakhri' slated as the closing film, adding a contemporary touch to the event's diverse programming.
This festival not only celebrates global and regional cinema but also serves as a platform to honor cultural heritage and foster artistic exchange in the heart of Guwahati.
