Goa: The 55th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) celebrated cinematic excellence by showcasing three remarkable films: the Gujarati satire Karkhanu, Assamese drama Rador Pakhi, and the technology-driven Google Matrimony. These films, directed by visionary storytellers, delve into themes of suspense, humor, horror, the pursuit of genuine human connections, and the strength to face life’s adversities.
Director Rushabh Thanki described Karkhanu as deeply inspired by Gujarat’s rich folklore. Originally conceived as a short film, it evolved into a feature-length project. Parth Dave, the lead actor, revealed the film’s innovative approach, describing it as a two-year journey of satire, executed in a single continuous shot. Self-financed by the filmmakers, the screening of Karkhanu at IFFI marks a significant achievement for Gujarati cinema, reflecting its growing presence on the national stage.
Director Shreekarthick S S’s Google Matrimony, part of an anthology, examines the intersections of technology and human lives. Filmmaker Abhinav G Atrey explained how the story explores the evolving influence of technology on relationships, emphasizing its relevance in today’s digital era. Actor Dev shared his appreciation for the platform provided by IFFI, which he said inspires emerging filmmakers to focus on meaningful storytelling. Addressing the film’s commercial potential, Dev remarked, “Our goal was to create a film that resonates with audiences rather than prioritizing profits.”
Rador Pakhi, directed by Dr. Bobby Sharma Baruah, is a poignant narrative about a young girl with Spinal Muscular Atrophy. Dr. Baruah explained that the understated tone of the film reflects the authenticity of its true-life inspiration. Actress Sulakhyana Baruah shared the challenges of portraying such an emotionally demanding role, describing the experience as both an honor and a responsibility. “This role was mentally and physically challenging, but it was a privilege to bring this inspiring story to life,” she added.
IFFI’s commitment to showcasing diverse cinematic voices was evident in the inclusion of these three films. Each project stands out for its unique storytelling and themes, offering audiences a rich tapestry of experiences that reflect the evolving landscape of Indian and global cinema.
The directors and actors expressed their gratitude for the recognition their films received at IFFI, highlighting the festival as an essential platform for bringing innovative and meaningful cinema to the forefront.
