India has been investing more money into the production of movies in the last few years under Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Minister for Information & Broadcasting Anurag Singh Thakur, said Hollywood actor and film producer Michael Douglas in an interaction with media at IFFI 54, Goa on Monday.

Michael Douglas will be bestowed with the prestigious Satyajit Ray Lifetime Achievement Award at the closing ceremony of 54th IFFI on Tuesday.

The iconic actor further said that this is the best time for the Indian cinema industry, and the representation of more than 78 foreign countries in IFFI 54 is the reflection of its strength.

“Indian films are renowned all around the world and are travelling more and more to various corners of the world. Streaming platforms are playing an important part in this growth,” he added.

Highlighting the role of movies in uniting the world, Douglas said that movies share same language and brings us closer together.

“The audience from all around the world can understand what is going on in movies. Movies create this international connection. This is the magic, beauty and joy of this industry and that’s why I love this business very much,” he said.

Sharing his joy on being awarded the Satyajit Ray Lifetime Achievement Award, the two-time Academy award winner said that it is a tremendous honour to receive this prestigious award.

In a recollection of his college days, he candidly shared that he had studied the works of Satyajit Ray like Pather Panchali and Charulata in his film course and getting an award named after him is special.

“Ray’s pictures were so interesting and they portrayed reality. The greatness of Ray is that he was not only a director, but also a writer, film editor, musician, all at the same time,” he said.

Praising Indian film RRR’s success in Oscars, Michael Douglas said that it is a spectacular achievement for India and it will boost confidence and encourage industry to craft many more such big films.