Goa: The 55th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) has taken significant steps toward making cinema accessible to all, reaffirming its commitment to inclusivity under the theme “Sabka Manoranjan” (Entertainment for Everyone). A dedicated press conference on “Accessibility at IFFI” showcased the festival’s transformative initiatives to ensure a welcoming and barrier-free experience for all attendees, including persons with disabilities.
Addressing the media, Prithul Kumar, Joint Secretary Broadcasting, Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, and Managing Director of NFDC, highlighted the inclusive measures integrated into this year’s festival. “The level of accessibility at IFFI has been stepped up this year,” he stated, emphasizing the presence of trained volunteers, sensitized staff, and a curated selection of accessible films, including a dedicated section of six films tailored for persons with disabilities and 11 additional accessible films. Kumar also noted the Ministry’s efforts to make the entertainment industry more inclusive through accessible guidelines, praising the Goa Government and the Entertainment Society of Goa (ESG) for their collaborative hosting of the event.
Taha I. Haaziq, Secretary of the State Commission for Persons with Disabilities, Goa, underscored Goa’s leading role in accessibility initiatives. “IFFI has truly embodied the spirit of Sabka Manoranjan,” he remarked. The festival’s offerings include ramps, live sign language interpretation, accessible e-rickshaws, wheelchairs, and a user-friendly website. Notable screenings, such as the accessible version of ‘12th Fail’, reflect the broader adoption of accessibility by production houses and OTT platforms. Haaziq affirmed Goa’s commitment to becoming a model state for accessibility.
As the Accessibility Partner for IFFI 2024, Svayam, a leading accessibility organization, played a crucial role in transforming the festival. Vandana Boolchand, Head of Svayam, detailed their contributions, including accessibility audits, training for volunteers and officials, and the adaptation of digital communication for persons with reduced vision. “We’ve ensured that every aspect of the festival is inclusive,” she noted.
A standout addition is the Tech Pavilion’s Simulation Zone, where attendees can experience challenges faced by persons with disabilities. This initiative promotes a deeper understanding of accessibility and encourages the creation of empathetic and inclusive public spaces.
The 55th IFFI has set a new benchmark in inclusivity, demonstrating that entertainment can truly be for everyone. From barrier-free venues to accessible screenings and sensitivity-trained staff, the festival’s comprehensive measures are a step toward a more inclusive cinematic future.
The efforts of the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, in collaboration with the Goa Government, ESG, and Svayam, ensure that IFFI continues to lead by example, inspiring global festivals to follow suit.