Top Film Festivals in India

With more than 2000 films released every year across 22 regional languages, India has the most prominent film production in the World. Whether you are a movie fanatic or a wanderlust seeking new experiences, these film festivals are a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Here are some of the biggest film festivals in India that should be on your bucket list.

International Film Festival of India

The International Film Festival of India was founded in 1952 and since then has been held annually in the state of Goa. The picturesque beaches and endless nightlife of this tropical destination definitely facilitate the best experience of the film festival. Since its conception over 52 years ago, the International Film Festival has been one of Asia’s most significant film festivals. The festival is organized by the Directorate of Film Festivals and aims to provide a platform for the artists to showcase their best art and promote appreciation of different cultures.

Mumbai International Film Festival

The Mumbai International Film Festival was first held in 1990 and is held biennially in Mumbai. The film festival is organized by the Films Division of India and is a rendezvous for artists focusing on short films, documentaries, and animation movies. With its big city feel, historic landmarks, and beautiful beaches, the city of dreams is definitely the place to be. The Mumbai International Film Festival is usually held during January or February and can extend up to a week.

Kolkata International Film Festival

The Kolkata International Film Festival was first held in 1995 and organized by the West Bengal Film Center. This cinematic extravaganza is held annually in the month of November in Kolkata and offers a chance for the artists to present their outstanding work. The Film Festival mainly focuses on short films and documentaries, thus giving the smaller artists a platform to get noticed. Kolkata is famous for its theater, museums, art galleries, and architecture; as such, it is the seventh heaven for artists from around the World.

Jaipur International Film Festival

The Jaipur International Film Festival was first held in 2009 and since has been held annually in January. Jaipur International Film Festival Trust organizes the festival. Held in the picturesque location of the Pink City of India, this film festival is popular among international audiences and offers a platform for movie makers and movie buffs alike. The festival mainly focuses on fiction films and is attended by more than 70 countries each year.

Delhi International Film Festival

Delhi International Film Festival was first held in 1977 and is organized by the Directorate of Film Festivals. The major awards given at this ceremony are the Golden Peacock Awards and the Silver Peacock Awards. It is usually conducted during the month of January in the scenic landscape of Delhi. The festival is attended by more than 60 countries and screens over 200 films each year. In addition to seeing your favorite stars up close, the Film Festival also has a spectacular opening and closing ceremonies.