November 21, 2024: The 55th International Film Festival of India (IFFI 2024) has become a melting pot of creativity, showcasing the evolution and diversity of Indian cinema. This year, 262 non-feature films from across India vied for a spot in the prestigious Indian Panorama, with 20 exceptional films making the cut. From the untapped talent of the Northeast to the opening Ladakhi film, Ghar Jaisa Kuch by Harsh Sangani, this year’s selection celebrates storytelling in its rawest form.
“We need to talk more about documentaries and non-feature films,” said Ms. Vandana Kohli, an accomplished jury member at the IFFI 2024, highlighting the need for media and film clubs to advocate for this underappreciated genre.
Northeast Filmmakers Shine Bright at IFFI 2024
A remarkable surge in entries from the Northeast region stood out at this year’s festival, showcasing stories deeply rooted in local cultures and traditions. The National Film Development Corporation (NFDC) was lauded for its proactive steps in financing non-feature films from this region, enabling new voices to rise in Indian cinema.
“More than 250 entries came from across the country, with a significant number from the Northeast,” revealed Jury Chairperson Shri Subbiah Nallamuthu, an award-winning documentary filmmaker. He emphasized that college students and young creators contributed innovative content, with storytelling and impact serving as primary selection criteria.
Ladakhi Film Opens Indian Panorama
In a proud moment for Indian cinema, a Ladakhi non-feature film, Ghar Jaisa Kuch, was selected as the opening film in the category. “This is a rare and proud occasion,” said Ms. Shalini Shah, another jury member, highlighting how mentoring initiatives have played a pivotal role in elevating regional cinema.
Spotlight on Documentaries
The jury underscored the pressing need to support documentaries and non-feature films. “Awareness, mentorship, and financial backing are critical,” said the panel, stressing that the craft of editing and storytelling often lags behind content quality.
The panel at the IFFI 2024 urged OTT platforms to commission and promote non-feature films, creating a viable ecosystem for such projects. They also proposed leveraging CSR funds for independent documentaries, ensuring financial sustainability for filmmakers tackling unconventional themes.
Innovation in Indian Cinema
From urban filmmakers exploring remote regions to emerging voices tackling hard-hitting topics, this year’s selection reflects the vast potential of Indian storytellers. The Documentary Resource Initiative launched by the NFDC was highlighted as a promising step towards creating robust support for filmmakers.
Meet the Jury
The Non-Feature Film Jury was chaired by Shri Subbiah Nallamuthu, recipient of five National Film Awards and the V. Shantaram Lifetime Achievement Award. The diverse seven-member panel included acclaimed directors, producers, and writers:
- Shri Rajnikant Acharya – Producer and Film Director
- Shri Ronel Haobam – Film Director
- Ms. Usha Deshpande – Film Director and Producer
- Ms. Vandana Kohli – Film Director and Writer
- Shri Mithunchandra Chaudhari – Film Director
- Ms. Shalini Shah – Film Director
IFFI’s Role in Indian Cinema
The 55th IFFI continues to serve as a crucial platform for dialogue and collaboration among filmmakers, fostering a culture of innovation and creativity. By celebrating non-feature films, the festival highlights their potential to document, entertain, and reflect India’s contemporary values.
The festival’s message is clear: Indian cinema is not just about glitz and glamour—it’s about real stories, real people, and real impact.