The 55th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) concluded with a spectacular closing ceremony at the Dr. Shyama Prasad Mukherjee Indoor Stadium in Goa on November 28. Over nine days, the festival showcased more than 200 films from 75 countries, celebrating global cinema and the art of filmmaking.
The event’s closing ceremony featured a distinguished jury led by Chairperson Ashutosh Gowariker, alongside members Anthony Chen, Elizabeth Karlsen, Fran Borgia, and Jill Bilcock. The jury selected winners across various categories, recognizing exceptional talent and creativity in the film industry.
Key Award Winners:
- Personality of the Year: Actor Vikrant Massey, renowned for his role in 12th Fail, was honored with the Personality of the Year award.
- Best Debut Director (Indian Feature Film): Navjyot Bandivadekar received the award for his Marathi film Gharat Ganpati.
- ICFT-UNESCO Gandhi Medal: The prestigious Gandhi Medal was awarded to Swedish director Levan Akin for his film Crossing, which promotes themes of peace, non-violence, and human rights.
- Satyajit Ray Lifetime Achievement Award: Australian filmmaker Phillip Noyce was bestowed with the Satyajit Ray Lifetime Achievement Award, recognizing his significant contributions to global cinema.
Complete List of Winners:
- Golden Peacock (Best Film): Toxic (Lithuanian)
- Best Actress: Vesta Matuliyte and Iva Rupeikaite for Toxic
- Best Actor: Clement Faveau for Holy Cow
- Best Director: Bogdan Muresanu for The New Year That Never Came
- Special Jury Award: Louise Courvoisier for Holy Cow
- Special Mention (Best Actor – Male): Adam Besa for Who Do I Belong To
- Best Web Series: Lampan (Marathi)
- Best Debut Director for Feature Film: Sarah Friedland for Familiar Touch
The 55th IFFI not only celebrated cinematic excellence but also highlighted the festival’s role in fostering international collaboration and dialogue through film.