WEEKLONG PARTY IN BENGALURU!! 16th Bengaluru International Film Festival Opens
Inaugurated in front of the iconic Vidhana Soudha by Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah, alongside Deputy CM DK Shivakumar as the chief guest, the festival promises a week-long celebration of films, ideas, and cultural exchange.
The 16th Bengaluru International Film Festival (BIFFes) launched today, transforming the city into a vibrant hub for global cinema. Inaugurated at 5:00 PM IST in front of the iconic Vidhana Soudha by Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, alongside Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar as the chief guest, the festival promises a week-long celebration of films, ideas, and cultural exchange, running until March 8.
The opening ceremony saw Kannada cinema legend Shivarajkumar take center stage, releasing five cinema-related books published by the Karnataka Film Academy, as well as the festival manual. Actor Kishore Kumar G, serving as BIFFes’ international ambassador, joined dignitaries, including representatives from the Polish Institute, to mark the occasion. The theme for this year, "Universal Peace in Diversity," resonates through a lineup of over 200 films from more than 60 countries, set to be screened across 400 shows at 15 venues citywide, including Orion Mall, Suchitra Film Society, Kalavidara Sangha, and Dr. Rajkumar Bhavan.
This edition of BIFFes blends tradition with innovation. Attendees can look forward to interactive sessions with acclaimed filmmakers like Chidambaram (Manjummel Boys), Rajkumar Periasamy (Amaran), and cinematographer Ravi Varman, offering a rare glimpse into the creative process. A full-day seminar on the role of artificial intelligence in filmmaking reflects the festival’s forward-thinking approach. Meanwhile, nostalgia buffs might catch open-air screenings of Kannada classics like Bhootayyana Maga Ayyu (1974) and Naagarahaavu (1972), projected in 16mm—a nod to cinema’s analog roots.
The festival pays tribute to cinematic giants with centenary retrospectives honoring Guru Dutt, Raj Kapoor, and Ritwik Ghatak, alongside showcases of works by Shyam Benegal, Krzysztof Kieslowski, and Wim Wenders. International highlights include Oscar hopefuls Anora and Emilia Perez, ensuring a mix of arthouse and mainstream appeal.
Organized by the Karnataka Film Academy, BIFFes remains accessible, with delegate passes priced at Rs 800 for the public and Rs 400 for students, film professionals, society members, and seniors. Registration opened on February 18, and the full schedule is available on the festival’s official website.
As Bengaluru buzzes with screenings, discussions, and starry appearances over the next week, BIFFes reaffirms its status as a cultural bridge—uniting filmmakers, cinephiles, and diverse voices under one roof. Whether you’re a fan of global cinema or local legends, this is one event that promises something for everyone.
