Ajanta-Ellora Film Fest: In a magnificent celebration of global cinema, the ninth edition of the Ajanta-Ellora International Film Festival is set to unfold its magic in the heart of Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, commencing on January 3. The anticipation for this five-day extravaganza is soaring, as film enthusiasts eagerly await the cinematic brilliance that will grace the Rukmini Auditorium of the prestigious MGM University campus.
Distinguished Presence: A Stellar Opening Ceremony
The inauguration promises a star-studded affair with acclaimed filmmakers R Balki and Anubhav Sinha gracing the occasion alongside Apurva Chandra, Principal Secretary of the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting. This illustrious trio will set the stage for a festival that transcends borders and genres.
Cinematic Gems Unveiled: Film Lineup and Highlights
The festival’s opening act, the German-Finnish film “Fallen Leaves,” will captivate audiences with its cinematic prowess. As the curtains draw to a close on January 7, the Palme d’Or winning French courtroom drama “Anatomy of a Fall” promises a riveting conclusion to this cinematic spectacle.
A highlight of the inaugural day will be the felicitation of the legendary lyricist-screenwriter Javed Akhtar, who will be bestowed with the prestigious Padmapani Lifetime Achievement Award, a testament to his outstanding contributions to the world of cinema.
Beyond the Screen: Engaging Events and Competitions
Beyond the captivating film screenings at Prozone Mall, the festival will host a myriad of events, including engaging short film competitions, an Indian film competition, and master classes conducted by the maestros Anubhav Sinha and R Balki. Attendees can also immerse themselves in interactive sessions that promise to unravel the intricacies of the cinematic world.
The crowning glory awaits the winning film team, as they will be honored with the coveted Golden Kailasha Award along with a generous cash prize of Rs 1 lakh. Recognizing excellence, awards will also be presented in categories such as Best Actor, Best Actress, and Best Script during this cinematic fiesta.
Judging Excellence: Indian Film Competition Jury
The prestigious Indian film competition jury will be led by the veteran actor and director Dhritiman Chatterjee. The distinguished panel, featuring luminaries such as cinematographer Dimo Popov, director Nachiket Patwardhan, film critic Rashmi Doraiswamy, and cinematographer Hari Nair, brings a wealth of expertise to evaluate and recognize outstanding cinematic achievements.
Honoring Brilliance: FIPRESCI India Awards
Adding another layer of distinction, the FIPRESCI India Awards will be presented to films that embody cinematic excellence. Nandkishor Kagliwal, the chairman of the organizing committee, proudly announced this addition to the festival, enhancing its global standing.
A Tapestry of Knowledge: Special Lectures and Workshops
Dive deeper into the realms of cinema with special lectures during the festival. PIB senior officer Prakash Magdum will deliver a thought-provoking session on ‘Gandhi and Cinema,’ providing insights into the profound influence of cinema on societal perspectives. Additionally, Dhritiman Chatterjee will unravel the brilliance of Mrinal Sen in a session aptly titled ‘Understanding Mrinal Sen.’
An interactive session with directors participating in the film competitions and a film appreciation workshop will further enrich the festival’s offerings, providing attendees with an immersive and educational cinematic experience.
The culmination of Excellence: The Ajanta-Ellora International Film Festival
Previously known as the Aurangabad International Film Festival (AIFF), this cinematic gala is orchestrated by the collaboration of Nath Group, Yashwantrao Chavan Centre, Mumbai, and MGM University. As the festival unfolds its cinematic tapestry, it cements its position as a beacon of artistic expression and global cinematic celebration.
In conclusion, the ninth Ajanta-Ellora International Film Festival promises an unparalleled cinematic journey, transcending boundaries and captivating audiences with its diverse offerings. From star-studded ceremonies to thought-provoking lectures, this festival is a testament to the power of cinema in shaping our cultural landscape.
