Grand Parade Marks Historic, Carnival Style Opening of 56th IFFI in Panaji
20 November 2025: The 56th International Film Festival of India (IFFI 2025) opened with a spectacular grand parade in Panaji, marking a historic first for the festival. Held on 20 November, the parade transformed the city’s DB Road into a vibrant cultural corridor as floats from film production houses, participating states, and cultural troupes moved from the Old Goa Medical College building to the Kala Academy. Over two dozen floats— including 12 presented by the Goa government—showcased themes celebrating India’s cinematic legacy, animation, and regional identities. The highlight was the large folk production “Bharat Ek Soor”, produced by Central Beauru of Communication under Minstry of Broadcasting & Communication featuring over 100 artists performing traditional dances, along with the appearance of beloved animated characters like Chhota Bheem, Motu Patlu, and Bittu Bahanebaaz, which drew enthusiastic reactions from spectators.
The parade created a carnival-like atmosphere across Panaji, turning the festival’s opening into an inclusive public celebration rather than a closed-door ceremony. Thousands of locals, tourists, and delegates lined the streets to witness the floats, cultural performances, and live music, making it one of the most memorable IFFI openings to date. The event successfully blended Goa’s carnival spirit with the festival’s cinematic grandeur, setting an energetic tone for the nine-day celebration that followed.
Goa Chief Minister Shri Pramod Sawant along with Governor of Goa Shri Pushpak Ashok Gajapathi Raju inaugurates IFFI 2025 with a vibrant grand parade in Panaji.
Anupam Kher, Shekhar Kapur and Nandamuri Balaakrishna make a striking presence at the IFFI 2025 grand parade in Panaji.
Beloved animated characters Chhota Bheem and Chutki delight crowds with their lively appearance at the IFFI 2025 Frand Parade.
Vibrant cultural performance from Haryana showcase the state’s rich folk traditions.
National Film Development Corporation showcases its presence with a thematic float.
Shree Shantadurga Babareshwar Yuvak Sangh Cultural presence at the Parade.
Artists from Kashmir add colour and charm to the IFFI 2025 grand parade.
Waves OTT marks its presence at the opening parade.
Blend of culture and Cinema shines through at the parade.
Artists from Uttarakhand add flair to the IFFI 2025 parade.
