Ashutosh Gowariker Appointed as Festival Director For 57th IFFI In Goa

The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has appointed noted filmmaker Ashutosh Gowariker as Festival Director for the 57th edition of the International Film Festival of India, scheduled to take place in Goa later this year.

Gowariker, known for his expansive body of work in Indian cinema, brings with him decades of association with the festival. His engagement with IFFI reflects a long-standing involvement with both Indian and global film cultures, positioning him as a seasoned choice for the role.

Reacting to the appointment, Gowariker said he was honoured to take on the responsibility. He recalled his journey with the festival, noting that he first attended IFFI in 1984 and has remained connected to it over the years, most recently serving as Jury President for International Cinema in 2024. He described the opportunity as both a privilege and a moment of pride.

He emphasised the legacy of the festival, which has been shaped by numerous contributors since its inception in 1952, and said he looks forward to working closely with the Union Ministry and the Government of Goa to build on that foundation.

Established in 1952, IFFI is among Asia’s most prominent film festivals and serves as a key platform for global cinema. Over the decades, it has evolved into a meeting point for filmmakers, industry professionals, and audiences, fostering cultural exchange through cinema.

Organised jointly by the National Film Development Corporation under the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting and the Entertainment Society of Goa, the festival has grown into a diverse showcase of cinematic expression. Its programming typically includes international competitions, country focus segments, retrospectives, masterclasses, and the Film Bazaar—an industry hub for collaboration and project development.

Set against Goa’s coastal landscape, the upcoming 57th edition, scheduled for November 2026, is expected to expand its scope further, bringing together a wide spectrum of storytelling traditions, languages, and emerging technologies in cinema.