The 57th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) will celebrate the legacy of Malayalam cinema while showcasing contemporary filmmakers and emerging storytelling trends during its upcoming edition in Goa from November 20 to 28, 2026.
The festival will feature a special centenary tribute to legendary actor Prem Nazir, alongside screenings of recent Malayalam films across different sections. Filmmaker and actor Basil Joseph and playback singer K. S. Chithra will also participate in special sessions during the festival.
Prem Nazir’s Centenary to Be Marked with Screening of Thulabharam
A major attraction for Malayalam cinema audiences will be the screening of Thulabharam, as part of IFFI’s centenary celebrations honouring distinguished personalities in Indian cinema.
The film is associated with Prem Nazir, widely remembered as the evergreen romantic hero of Malayalam cinema. The screening will offer audiences an opportunity to revisit his contribution to Indian cinema and celebrate a legacy that continues to hold cultural significance.
Sarvam Maya and Other Malayalam Films Feature in Indian Panorama
Contemporary Malayalam filmmaking will be represented by Sarvam Maya, directed by Akhil Sathyan and starring Nivin Pauly, Aju Varghese, Riya Shibu and Priety Mukundan. Selected for the Indian Panorama feature-film section, the supernatural drama follows Prabhendu, an atheist musician who becomes involved in an unusual relationship with the spirit of a young woman. The story explores themes of faith, love and self-discovery.
The Indian Panorama’s New Horizon section will feature two more Malayalam films: Ottanjaavalmaram (A Lone Jamun Tree), directed by Shruthi Sharanyam, and Ajayante Maranam: Oru Case Study, directed by Sreehari Haridas.
Other Malayalam selections include Switch Off, an 11-minute short film directed by Sandeep Francis, in the non-feature category, and Half, directed by Keralam-based filmmaker Samjad, in the Gala Premieres section.
Together, these selections present a range of storytelling styles and subjects, highlighting the diversity of Malayalam cinema.
Basil Joseph and K. S. Chithra to Lead Special Festival Sessions
Malayalam film personalities will also feature in IFFI’s interactive sessions and retrospectives.
Filmmaker and actor Basil Joseph will participate in an ‘In Conversation’ session titled The Epic Genres – Mythologies, Superheroes & New Worlds. The discussion will explore changing approaches to epic storytelling and the development of new cinematic worlds.
Playback singer K. S. Chithra will lead a retrospective session paying tribute to legendary singers Asha Bhosle and S. Janaki. The session will celebrate their contributions to Indian music and their enduring influence on generations of listeners.
The 57th edition of the International Film Festival of India will be held in Goa from November 20 to 28 under the theme “Stories without Borders”.
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