Himachal International Film Festival inaugurates today with “The Rabbit House”.
Shimla:
The first Himachal International Film Festival is set to commence today, at Sanskriti Sadan in Kangnidhar, Mandi, famously known as Chhoti Kashi. The festival, spanning four days, will kick off at 11 am, featuring a diverse array of films and cultural events.
Organized by festival director Pawan Sharma and supported by Ratan Jewelers’ Raja Singh, the event aims to celebrate the rich cultural heritage of Himachal Pradesh. As a tribute to distinguished local figures in arts, culture, literature, and music, four luminaries will be honored with the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award. Among them are renowned writer KK Nutan, acclaimed for the film “Geet Gaya Pattharon Ne,” and Professor Ramesh Ravi, a pivotal figure in Mandi’s theatrical scene. Also recognized are SD Kashyap, a pioneer in Hindi and Himachali music, and Prof. Sundar Lohiya, esteemed for his contributions to Hindi literature on a national scale.
Highlighting the opening ceremony is the screening of “The Rabbit House,” filmed in Sainj village, Kullu district, featuring local talent Gagan Pradeep in the lead role. Additional films showcased include Himachal’s own “Chitta,” “Mukal,” “Keele,” and the environmental documentary “Van Rakshak.”
A total of 35 films are scheduled for screening throughout the festival, with parallel screenings planned for two days at IIT Mandi. In addition to the cinematic offerings, attendees will have the opportunity to experience glimpses of folk dances from various states.
The festival also serves as a platform for local talent, many of whom have carved out successful careers after starting in Mandi’s vibrant theatre scene. Notable figures like Sapna Mudgal, who trained at the National School of Drama before making a mark in Mumbai with films such as “Chillar Party” and “Bareilly Barfi,” exemplify Mandi’s cultural influence.
In anticipation of engaging discussions, guest artists and filmmakers will interact with the local community at Sankan Garden near clock tower, facilitated by the Municipal Corporation, providing insights into their creative journeys and cinematic endeavors.
The Himachal International Film Festival promises to be a celebration of cinema, culture, and creativity, reinforcing Mandi’s status as a cultural hub and offering a platform for Himachali artists to shine on the global stage.
