GOA: The International Film Festival of India (IFFI), one of Asia’s most prestigious cinematic events, is gearing up for its 56th edition. Media professionals eager to cover this celebration of global cinema can now apply for accreditation, with the portal open until November 5, 2025.
This year’s festival promises a vibrant showcase of films, industry insights, and cultural exchanges, drawing filmmakers, enthusiasts, and professionals from around the world.
Established in 1952, IFFI has grown into South Asia’s only FIAPF-accredited competitive feature film festival. Organized by the National Film Development Corporation of India (NFDC) under the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, in collaboration with the Government of Goa and the Indian film industry, the festival aims to provide a common platform for cinemas worldwide.
It fosters understanding and appreciation of diverse film cultures in their social and cultural contexts, while promoting friendship and cooperation among global audiences. The festival not only highlights artistic excellence but also serves as a hub for networking, workshops, and market opportunities through its concurrent Film Bazaar.
Over the years, IFFI has hosted thousands of films and attracted over 45,000 participants annually. In its previous edition, it received 1,811 entries from 114 countries and screened 278 films from 81 nations, including numerous premieres.
The 56th IFFI will take place from November 20 to 28, 2025, in the scenic coastal state of Goa, India. This nine-day event will feature a broad spectrum of programming, including competitive sections, non-competitive screenings, masterclasses, and public engagements.
The accompanying Film Bazaar, now in its 19th edition, will run from November 20 to 24, 2025, offering a marketplace for film buyers, sellers, and co-production opportunities.
While the specific theme or country of focus for 2025 has not been announced in recent updates, past editions have spotlighted nations like Australia (in 2024), emphasizing cross-cultural cinematic contributions. Attendees can expect a mix of world premieres, international films, and special tributes, continuing IFFI’s tradition of celebrating the “joy of cinema.”
The festival’s core competitive segment features up to 15 feature films (including up to three Indian entries) from around the world. Films must be fiction features of at least 72 minutes, completed between September 1, 2024, and August 31, 2025, and not previously screened in India (with exceptions for Indian films). It emphasizes cultural and aesthetic excellence, with selections limited to one per country or continent for variety.
Best Debut Feature Film of a Director: A dedicated competition for first-time directors, showcasing up to seven films (five foreign and two Indian) that meet similar eligibility criteria.
In partnership with the International Council for Film, Television and Audiovisual Communication (ICFT) and UNESCO, this award honors films promoting tolerance, peace, and intercultural dialogue. Up to 10 films are nominated, focusing on ethical storytelling and societal impact.
Non-Competition Sections Includes “Cinema of the World” for global films, curated packages (e.g., country focus, tributes, animation, UNICEF collaborations), and the Indian Panorama, which highlights outstanding Indian cinema.
Additional highlights include masterclasses, workshops, talent hubs, and the IFFI Mela—a public festival with cultural programs, exhibitions, and interactive events. All screenings occur at dedicated venues in Goa, with films requiring certification or exemption from India’s Central Board of Film Certification.
Awards and Recognition
The festival offers prestigious awards judged by international juries, with cash prizes and trophies,
Golden Peacock for Best Film: ₹40,00,000 (shared between director and producer), plus a certificate.
Silver Peacock for Best Director: ₹15,00,000 and certificate.
Silver Peacock for Best Actor (Male/Female) ₹10,00,000 each and certificate.
Special Jury Award, ₹15,00,000 and Silver Peacock.
Best Debut Feature, ₹10,00,000 and Silver Peacock to the director.
ICFT UNESCO – Gandhi Medal is given for films embodying UNESCO’s ideals. Other honors like the Satyajit Ray Lifetime Achievement Award and Indian Film Personality of the Year, each with ₹10,00,000. Winners are announced at the closing ceremony, and awardees are expected to attend in person.
Media Accreditation opened on October 15, 2025, and will close on November 5, 2025. Accredited journalists, photographers, and media personnel gain exclusive access to press conferences, red carpet events, screenings, and interviews with filmmakers and celebrities.
To apply, visit the official IFFI portal at https://my.iffigoa.org/ (
Applicants typically need to provide proof of media affiliation, such as a press card, recent bylines, or employer letter, along with personal details and a passport-sized photo.
Once approved, passes can be collected at the venue starting closer to the festival dates. For queries, contact the festival’s programming team via email at programming@nfdcindia.com
