Panaji: The 56th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) honored the legendary Rajinikanth for his incredible 50-year journey in Indian cinema. During the closing ceremony in Goa, he expressed his gratitude, thanking the Central Government and the Goa government for the recognition.
“These fifty years felt like a blink. I love acting so much that I’d wish to be reborn as Rajinikanth,” he shared, reflecting on his long career.
The event was not just about Rajinikanth. Karan Singh Tyagi received the Best Debut Director award for his film “Kesari Chapter 2.” This film tells the powerful story of Sankaran Nair, a courageous barrister who dared to challenge the British Empire about the Jallianwala Bagh massacre. Tyagi’s unique storytelling and commitment to meaningful narratives set him apart in the industry.
The jury praised “Kesari Chapter 2” for its historical significance and cinematic excellence, celebrating its effective portrayal of a critical period in India’s freedom struggle.
In addition, the festival awarded the ICFT–UNESCO Gandhi Medal to the Norwegian film “Safe House,” directed by Eirik Svensson. This gripping drama focuses on the challenges faced by aid workers in conflict zones, highlighting moral dilemmas during a civil war in Central Africa. The film received acclaim for its authentic portrayal of courage and humanity amidst chaos.
The Golden Peacock for best film was won by “Skin of Youth,” a Vietnamese drama that explores the intense love between a transgender sex worker and an underground cage fighter. It features a landmark role as the first fiction film in Vietnam to cast a transperson in the lead.
This year’s IFFI showcased a blend of established legends and emerging talents, emphasizing the evolving nature of cinema and storytelling. As an audience, it’s fascinating to see how films like these not only entertain but also reflect important societal issues.
For more details, you can check the official IFFI website and read about the films that continue to shape the cinematic landscape.
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IFFI, GOA, RAJNIKANTH, KESARI 2, IFFI, THE AWARD WAS PRESENTED BY GOA CHIEF MINISTER PRAMOD SAWANT

