PANJIM: Curtains have just come down on the 55th International Film Festival. The festival is supposed to create a film culture all over Goa. However, we see that majority of the activities are limited to Panjim itself. Herald TV asked people whether IFFI has become a Panjim centric festival and not a film festival for all of Goa, spreading the film culture to the entire State?
Infact it is only along the Dayanand Bandodkar road there is some noise about IFFI. It is not seen any part or village of Goa. The effect of this international film festival should be felt all over Goa. The Goan produced films and the actors from all over India and abroad should meet people of Goa. The Goan filmmakers, actors, directors should meet those from national and international level. The NFDC, Director of Information and ESG bring these artistes from outside Goa.
They book about 1000 rooms, but there is no interaction with Goan film makers. They are not doing anything to involve the Goan public. IFFI is only happening in Panjim. From the hotel them come to the screening of their films, they have an after party and then return to their home state. There is no interaction
Francis Coelho, Theatrical Production Specialist
The film festival which closed on November 28, is like a playground for merrymakers. It is like a natak. Goa culture is world famous of which Carnival is a part. But these people who come a nautankiwallas. They display their art, the come in front of the camera by putting their makeup, show their talent and go. I felt bad because during the film festival. They blocked the road and created inconvenience to Panjimites and Goans in general.
Then they displayed Shigmo and Romtamel. However, all these directors and all should come to Goa and witness the Shigmo and Carnival at the time of the festivals. Now we have to dance before them. This was done during the days of Kings who used to make us dance on the streets. The BJP government has made us dance before these people. What picture have they painted before them?
Sanjay Barde, Social Activist