Pranav Birje | Senior Correspondent
The National Museum of Indian Cinema (NMIC), under the National Film Development Corporation (NFDC), successfully inaugurated the 5th edition of the NFDC & Country Film Festival with the Sri Lanka & NFDC Film Festival. This five-day cinematic and cultural exchange, running from February 1st to 5th, 2025, celebrates the storytelling traditions of India and Sri Lanka.
The festival began with a museum tour, followed by opening remarks from Ms. Jayita Ghosh, Manager, NMIC-NFDC, who highlighted the significance of cross-cultural collaborations through cinema. Mr. D. Ramakrishnan, General Manager, NFDC, then felicitated Mr. Buddhika Hewawasam, Chairman, Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau, and Ms. Shirani Ariyarathne, Acting Consulate General of Sri Lanka. In a gesture of appreciation, Sri Lanka also felicitated NFDC for its continued support in fostering cinematic ties.
The Chief Guest, acclaimed actress Taranjit Kaur, was also honored by Mr. Hewawasam. Best known for her role in Raju, a Student Oscar-winning short film, and performances in Ankhon Dekhi and Airlift, Taranjit expressed her delight in being part of such a significant cultural exchange.
The event continued with the unveiling of the festival promo and teaser, followed by a remarkable Sri Lankan cultural performance by K.O. Dancing Academy, led by Mr. Karunadasa Olabodua, an internationally acclaimed traditional dancer. The evening concluded with a Sri Lankan cuisine experience, courtesy of the Acting Consulate General of Sri Lanka.
Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Ramakrishnan emphasized that “festivals like these serve as a bridge between creativity and culture, with cinema being the most powerful medium to unite nations.” Mr. Hewawasam echoed this sentiment, expressing his enthusiasm for future collaborations.
The festival will continue with film screenings from February 2nd to 5th at NMIC Auditorium 2, NFDC Premises, featuring celebrated films from Sri Lanka and NFDC.
Venue: NMIC, NFDC Premises, Mumbai.
For more updates, follow NFDC & NMIC on social media.