Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu inaugurated the 9th International Film Festival of Shimla at the historic Gaiety theatre, Shimla last evening in which filmmakers from 20 countries and 22 States of India are participating.
International filmmakers from the United States, Belgium, Iran, Canada, China, Czech Republic, Turkey, Nepal, Egypt, Bangladesh, Italy, Poland, Argentina, Sweden, Afghanistan, Australia, France and Dubai will bring their cinematic creations to the global stage. The festival will conclude on 24th September.
While addressing the film fraternity on the occasion, Chief Minister said that the gathering here this evening is a mix of cultures, perspectives, and blend of voices from 20 countries and all over India and highlighted the crucial role that films play in reflecting the essence of society.
"I never miss an opportunity to indulge in watching films whenever my schedule permits" said he adding that movies offer a much-needed escape from the rigors of daily life and can be a source of solace and recreation.
He emphasized the role of cinema which serves as a mirror, reflecting the diversity, culture, and issues prevalent in the society. The Chief Minister said that the State Government was making efforts to encourage the Pahari language in the State and stressed for regional film productions.
He said that the International Film Festival of Shimla stands as a significant event for our state, forging a stronger bond between Himachal Pradesh and the global film community. Through the medium of cinema, we extend our culture, principles, and narratives to the world.
The Chief Minister also released the festival booklet on the occasion. He also witnessed the film ‘Roya’ screened during the inaugural session.Festival Director Pushp Raj Thakur welcomed the Chief Minister and said that 9th International Film Festival of Shimla will have some unique screening locations.
This year, screenings will take place at the Model Central Jail in Kanda and Nahan also. He said that there will be a special screening at the Institute for Children with Special Abilities in Dhalli, where 130 students will have the opportunity to watch films on their campus. These venues, along with the Gaiety Theatre in Shimla, will host the three-day International Film Festival from September 22 to 24, 2023.
Chief Parliamentary Secretary Sanjay Awasthi, MLAs Inder Dutt Lakhanpal, Suresh Kumar, Rajesh Dharmani, Director General of Police Sanjay Kundu, Director Language, Art and Culture Pankaj Lalit, Director Information and Public Relations Rajeev Kumar, SP Sanjeev Gandhi and other dignitaries were also present.