57th IFFI to Celebrate Global Cinema Under the Theme ‘Stories Without Borders’

By Roxanne D’silva

Panaji: Goa is all set to host the 57th edition of the International Film Festival of India (IFFI), scheduled to be held from November 20 to 28, 2026, with the theme ‘Stories Without Borders’.

The curtain-raiser press conference, held at Dona paula, Panjim on Friday, offered a glimpse into the festival’s extensive programme, international participation and key attractions, setting the stage for nine days of cinematic celebrations.

IFFI 2026 to Celebrate Cinema Beyond Borders

The festival aims to bring together filmmakers, actors, industry professionals and cinema enthusiasts from across the globe, celebrating the ability of films to transcend geographical, cultural and linguistic boundaries. The theme highlights cinema’s power to connect people through shared human experiences and diverse storytelling.

The 2026 edition promises an impressive lineup, with over 150 international films representing 86 countries, alongside 76 Indian films across 18 languages. The programme will also feature 14 Gala premieres.

Goa Chief Minister Dr Pramod Sawant, inaugurated the curtain raiser. He reiterated the State’s commitment to hosting the international film fraternity and strengthening Goa’s position as an important destination for cinema and cultural exchange. The event was attended by senior officials from the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, the National Film Development Corporation (NFDC), the Entertainment Society of Goa (ESG) and members of the film fraternity.

Ashutosh Gowariker Highlights the Theme ‘Stories Without Borders’

Festival Director Ashutosh Gowariker highlighted the significance of the theme ‘Stories Without Borders’, explaining how cinema creates emotional connections between audiences irrespective of language or nationality. The festival will open with Fatherland by Polish filmmaker Paweł Pawlikowski, while I Matter by Alina Șerban will be presented as the mid-festival film. The closing film will be We Are All Strangers by Anthony Chen.

Read Also-Goa Ready to Welcome Global Cinema Community for 57th IFFI: CM Pramod Sawant

Spain will be the Country of Honour, while Russia will be the Partner Country. A special BRICS film package from its 11 member countries will further add to the international flavour of the festival.

Animation and Films About Films Among New Attractions

Among the new attractions this year are dedicated sections on Animation and “Films About Films,” each featuring five titles. The festival will also host retrospectives, restored classics, special screenings and tributes to celebrated personalities from Indian and international cinema.

Creative Minds of Tomorrow to Promote Emerging Filmmakers

The festival will also pay special attention to emerging talent and industry networking. The sixth edition of Creative Minds of Tomorrow, organised in association with the Film and Television Institute of India, Pune, will bring together 100 selected participants across 13 disciplines. They will work in teams to create films over two to three days at locations across Goa.

WAVES Film Bazaar to Provide Industry Networking Opportunities

The 20th edition of WAVES Film Bazaar will be another major highlight, providing a platform for filmmakers, producers, investors and distributors to explore collaborations and business opportunities. Its programme will include a Screenwriters Lab, Co-Production Market, viewing rooms and a technology showcase.

IFFI 2026 Screenings Across 13 Indoor Venues in Goa

Goa will host screenings across 13 indoor venues in Panaji, Porvorim, Margao and Ponda, in addition to open-air screenings at three locations, including Miramar beach. More than 7,000 delegates have registered for the festival so far. The organisers have also planned seven family-friendly films for open-air screenings, making the festival accessible to a wider audience.

Emphasising the importance of accessibility and exclusive participation, Delilah Lobo,Vice Chairperson of the Entertainment Society of Goa (ESG), said, “We have made provisions for the physically challenged persons with special transport facilities and ramps made so that they can access venues for movies without hassle.”

IFFI 2026 Expected to Attract Global Cinema Enthusiasts

With its extensive international film selection, special screenings, Master Classes, industry interactions and opportunities for emerging filmmakers, IFFI 2026 is expected to offer an enriching experience to both cinema professionals and the general public.

Read Also-57th IFFI 2026 Set to Transform Goa into a Vibrant Cinematic Destination: Delilah Lobo, Vice Chairperson ESG

As Goa prepares to welcome the global film fraternity once again, the 57th edition promises to celebrate the diversity of storytelling while strengthening the State’s cultural and creative identity on the international stage.