250 films from 45 countries are participating in the ‘Delhi International Film Festival’ (DIFF) began at NDMC Convention Centre in New Delhi from December 20.
The opening ceremony of the seven-day festival was graced by many diplomats and bureaucrats from around the world like Mr. Mahesh Sharma, union minister for Culture, Tourism & Civil Aviations, Mr. Subhash Ghai, eminent film maker, Mr. Sushil Kumar, Olympic award winner and Mr. Ohad Horsandi, spokesperson, Israel. Mr. Sharma inaugurated the festival.
‘Life Time Achievement Award’ was presented to Mr. Subhash Ghai, ‘Special Honour Award’ to veteran actor Biswajeet and a special award called ‘Minar-e-Dilli’ which was conferred to Olympic Medalist, Sushil Kumar at the awards giving ceremony.
The festival opened with the screening of the critically acclaimed film from Israel “The Neighborhood” directed by Llan Yagoda & the Sun and the wind – Short Greek film directed by Thansis Neophotolistos.
The film, ‘Zinda Bhaag’ from Pakistan starring Naseeruddin Shah and Dir by Meenu Gaur will be the closing film for this edition of the festival.
A large gathering of International directors, film critics, actors and actresses are expected to attend a grand fashion show to be held on December 24, organiser sources said.