Lagaan filmmaker Ashutosh Gowariker named as Festival Director for 57th IFFI

Gowariker is an acclaimed filmmaker with a distinguished contribution to Indian cinema.

His association with IFFI spans several decades, reflecting his deep engagement with the evolution of cinematic arts and international film culture.

Expressing his views on the appointment, Gowariker stated, “It gives me immense pride and joy to serve as the Festival Director for the prestigious 57th International Film Festival of India, Goa. I feel privileged to have witnessed the evolution of this festival. From attending it in 1984 to continuing my association over the years, right up to 2024, when I served as the Jury President for International Cinema.”

He further added, “To carry forward the legacy that has been created, nurtured, and expanded over the decades since 1952 by innumerable festival teams, is a great honour, accompanied by a renewed sense of responsibility. I look forward to working closely with the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting and the Government of Goa.”

The International Film Festival of India, established in 1952, is one of Asia’s premier film festivals and serves as a significant platform for showcasing excellence in global cinema while promoting cultural exchange.

Who is  Ashutosh Gowariker?

He is best known for directing period sports drama Lagaan (2001), the social drama Swades (2004) and historical romantic drama Jodhaa Akbar (2008), winning the Filmfare Award for Best Film and Best Director for Lagaan and Jodhaa Akbar. Lagaan was nominated for the Academy Award for Best International Feature Film at the 74th Academy Awards, which made him a voting member of the Academy Awards.