56th IFFI Remembers India’s Creative Titans
The Festival Finale Honors the Legends We Lost This Year
28 November 2025: The Closing Ceremony of the 56th International Film Festival of India in Goa took an emotional and reflective note as the festival paid homage to several towering figures from Indian cinema, music, theatre, and the creative arts who passed away in the last year. A specially curated video was screened, honouring the artists whose contributions have left an enduring imprint on the nation’s cultural landscape.
The tribute segment carried heightened poignancy with the passing of legendary actor Dharmendra, who left us on 24 November, while 56th IFFI was underway. IFFI’s homage extended across disciplines: actors, directors, musicians, theatre practitioners, and creative professionals, reflecting the depth and diversity of India’s artistic heritage. Each name represented a lifetime of passion, dedication, and creative excellence.
Below are the artists honoured during the ceremony:
Dharmendra
A towering figure of Indian cinema, Dharmendra excelled across genres, from romance and drama to action. His passing during the festival cast a shadow of grief over the Indian film fraternity.
Kamini Kaushal
A celebrated performer from the golden era of Hindi cinema, she was known for her nuanced portrayals and enduring screen presence. Her career spanned over seven decades, inspiring generations of actors.
Sulakshana Pandit
She was a gifted vocalist whose melodious voice defined many memorable Hindi film songs. As an actor, she brought emotional depth to her roles through the 1970s and 1980s.
Satish Shah
A beloved figure in both cinema and Indian television, he was celebrated for his impeccable comic timing and unforgettable performances. His work continues to be cherished by audiences across generations.
Piyush Pandey
A titan of the Indian advertising world, he shaped the industry through iconic campaigns and an unmistakable creative voice.
Rishabh Tandon
A vibrant musical talent, he was known for his soulful voice and contemporary creative style. His sudden passing left a void in the independent music community.
Govardhan Asrani
Known widely as Asrani, he was one of Indian cinema’s most versatile artists, effortlessly transitioning between comedy and serious roles. His directorial ventures also added depth to his multifaceted career.
Pankaj Dheer
Best known for iconic roles in Indian television and film, he brought gravitas and dignity to every character he portrayed.
Varinder Singh Ghuman
A professional bodybuilder turned actor, he earned admiration for his powerful screen presence and unique persona.
Zubeen Garg
A legendary voice, he achieved national popularity with his distinctive singing and musical range. His influence across Assamese and Indian pop music remains unmatched.
Bal Karve
A respected performer from Marathi theatre and cinema, he was known for his subtle acting style and memorable stage roles. His contributions enriched regional storytelling traditions.
Jaswinder Bhalla
A legendary figure in Punjabi cinema, he was adored for his impeccable comic performances and relatable characters.
Jyoti Chandekar
A seasoned film and theatre performer, she earned admiration for her emotionally compelling portrayals in Marathi cinema.
Ratan Thiyam
A global figure in Manipuri theatre, he was known for blending traditional forms with contemporary expression.
B. Saroja Devi
One of the most prominent stars of South Indian cinema, she worked across Kannada, Tamil, Telugu, and Hindi films.
Shefali Jariwala
Known for her breakout appearance in popular music videos and television, she remained a familiar face in Indian pop culture.
Partho Ghosh
He directed several significant Hindi films through the 1990s and early 2000s, known for his commercial filmmaking sensibilities.
Vibhu Raghave
A young and promising television actor, he was appreciated for his warm screen presence and relatable performances.
Chandrakanth
A familiar face in Telugu television, he was known for his dependable performances and dedication to his craft.
Shaji N. Karun
A pioneering voice in Malayalam cinema, he was internationally acclaimed for his poetic visual storytelling.
Manoj Kumar
Renowned for his patriotic roles, he was known for his contribution to Indian nationalist cinema. His films continue to inspire pride and cultural identity.
Alok Chatterjee
A stalwart of Indian theatre, he trained and inspired countless performers through his commitment to the stage.
Shyam Benegal
A titan of Indian parallel cinema, he shaped modern Indian filmmaking through his groundbreaking narratives and cinematic language.
Zakir Hussain
A world-renowned percussionist, he was celebrated for elevating the tabla to global recognition. His artistry bridged cultures and redefined Indian classical music internationally.
