d to talk more about these films in the media and create film clubs to generate
awareness among audiences and filmmakers.” She stressed the importance of mentoring, pointing
out that while the content is often exceptional, the craft of editing and storytelling could benefit from
professional guidance.
Reflecting on the emerging trends, the jury noted a promising increase in entries from the Northeast.
They also applauded the efforts of urban filmmakers who are traveling to remote regions to create
impactful documentaries, as reflected in the themes of several selected films this year.
The panel collectively called for greater support for documentary filmmaking, noting that the lack of
viable platforms hinders their reach. They urged OTT platforms to take the lead in commissioning and
promoting non-feature films. “Awareness generation, funding, and a structured channel for promotion
are critical to supporting this genre,” they said.
0 3
th
The jury also suggested that the government may consider channelling CSR funds towards individual
non-feature film projects to provide financial backing. They welcomed the National Film Development
Corporation’s (NFDC) recent initiatives to finance non-feature films in the Northeast, along with the
launch of the Documentary Resource Initiative.
The Non-Feature Film Jury, comprising seven members, is headed by Shri Subbiah Nallamuthu, a
renowned documentary filmmaker and FTII alumni who is a recipient of several awards including the
coveted V. Shantaram Lifetime Achievement Award, five National Film Awards and served as jury for
several international & national film festivals. The Non-Feature Jury constituted of the following
members who have to their credit many acclaimed films, and who individually represent various film
bodies and professions, while collectively representing the rich and diverse Indian film fraternity:
The Non-Feature Film Jury for IFFI 2024 comprises:
- Shri Subbiah Nallamuthu (Chairperson)
- Shri Rajnikant Acharya, Producer and Film Director
- Shri Ronel Haobam, Film Director
- Ms. Usha Deshpande, Film Director and Producer
- Ms. Vandana Kohli, Film Director and Writer
- Shri Mithunchandra Chaudhari, Film Director
- Ms. Shalini Shah, Film Director
Concluding the press conference, Ms Vandana Kohli remarked, “We need to understand
documentaries, comprehend them, and celebrate them.” Shri Sayyid Rabeehashmi moderated the
Press Conference.
At IFFI 2024, 20 non-feature films will be screened in the Indian Panorama selected from a spectrum
of 262 films. The package of Non-Feature Films exemplifies the capacity of emerging and established
filmmakers to document, investigate, entertain and also reflect contemporary Indian values. The Jury’s
choice for the opening film in the non-feature category is ‘Ghar Jaisa Kuch (Ladakhi)’, directed by Shri
Harsh Sangani.
The 55th IFFI continues to serve as a vital platform for filmmakers, fostering dialogue, innovation, and
collaboration within the global film community.
Read more: https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2067711
