Murugan Opens IFFI 2025 Masterclass Series in Goa
Focus on AI, sustainability and women-led cinema in global knowledge exchange
- Masterclasses opened to public for the first time
- Participants joining from Australia, Japan, Germany and Canada
- 50 films directed by women to be showcased this year
- Top filmmakers including Aamir Khan and Hirani to lead sessions
GG News Bureau
Panaji, 21st Nov: Union Minister of State for Information & Broadcasting and Parliamentary Affairs Dr L Murugan inaugurated the Masterclass Series at the 56th International Film Festival of India (IFFI 2025) at Kala Academy, Goa, on Friday. Senior officials including Information & Broadcasting Secretary Sanjay Jaju, Joint Secretary Dr Ajay Naghbhushan, NFDC Managing Director Prakash Magdum, filmmaker Muzaffar Ali and film personality Ravi Kottarakara were present.
For the first time, the Masterclass inauguration was held in the presence of the general public, marking a step towards greater accessibility and wider engagement with audiences. Participants from Australia, Japan, Germany and Canada have registered for the curated sessions, reinforcing IFFI’s position as a global learning platform.
Addressing the gathering, Dr Murugan said over 200 films will be screened during IFFI 2025, showcasing India’s expanding cinematic presence on the world stage. He emphasised that the festival supports the nation’s journey towards Viksit Bharat by nurturing cultural and creative excellence. Highlighting women’s leadership in cinema, he noted that 50 films directed by women will be screened — aligning with the Government’s focus on Nari Shakti inspired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
The Masterclass Series will feature a diverse range of knowledge-sharing formats such as workshops, panel discussions, interviews, fireside chats, and roundtable interactions. Prominent names including Vidhu Vinod Chopra, Rajkumar Hirani, Aamir Khan, Shekhar Kapur, Vishal Bhardwaj, Anupam Kher, Shad Ali and Suhasini Maniratnam will conduct sessions throughout the week.
Setting the tone for the programme, Muzaffar Ali led the opening session, focusing on cinematic craft and storytelling. This year’s curriculum places strong emphasis on contemporary advancements with workshops dedicated to Artificial Intelligence, sustainability practices in filmmaking, cinematography, VFX and SFX, along with theatre acting modules.
About IFFI
Founded in 1952, the International Film Festival of India is South Asia’s oldest and largest film festival. Jointly organised by the National Film Development Corporation, the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting and the Entertainment Society of Goa, IFFI brings together restored classics, global premieres, industry interactions and the high-energy WAVES Film Bazaar. The 56th edition is being held in Goa from November 20 to 28, showcasing innovation and creative diversity from around the world.
