The Ministry of Information & Broadcasting, Government of India, in coordination with the National Film Development Corporation (NFDC), is organising the 57th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) 2026 in Goa from 20 to 28 November 2026. The festival, themed ‘Stories Without Borders’, will bring together filmmakers, artists, cinema enthusiasts and industry professionals from across the world, celebrating the power of cinema to transcend geographical, linguistic and cultural boundaries.

IFFI 2026 has received over 1,900 film submissions from 137 countries and will showcase more than 150 international films representing 86 countries. The festival will provide a vibrant platform for cross-cultural exchange, diverse storytelling and cinematic excellence. The curtain-raiser press conference was inaugurated by the Chief Minister of Goa, Dr Pramod Sawant, who reaffirmed Goa’s readiness to welcome the global film fraternity. Festival Director Shri Ashutosh Gowariker highlighted cinema’s ability to connect people and cultures through shared human experiences.

The festival will open with Fatherland, directed by Paweł Pawlikowski, while I Matter, directed by Alina Șerban, will be screened as the Mid-Fest film. The closing film will be We Are All Strangers, directed by Anthony Chen. Spain has been designated the Country of Honour, while Russia will participate as the Partner Country, bringing distinctive cinematic perspectives to the festival.

The Indian Panorama section will showcase 76 films across 18 languages, reflecting the diversity and richness of Indian cinema. It will open with the Hindi feature film Dhurandhar and the Ladakhi non-feature film Becoming. IFFI will also place a special focus on BRICS cinema, with India’s Ramayana opening the BRICS film segment, featuring works from all 11 member countries and partner countries. The Best Debut Feature Films Competition will showcase seven international films, providing a platform for emerging filmmakers and new cinematic voices.

Another major highlight will be the WAVES Film Bazaar, scheduled from 20 to 24 November 2026 in Goa. Bringing together filmmakers, producers, buyers, distributors and industry stakeholders, the Film Bazaar will facilitate international collaboration, co-production and business opportunities. Key initiatives include the Screenwriters’ Lab, Co-production Market, Viewing Room and Work-in-Progress Lab. Netflix will join as the Knowledge Series partner, supporting industry capacity-building, strengthening India's VFX capabilities and nurturing emerging creative talent.

With masterclasses, workshops, panel discussions, retrospectives, centenary tributes and restored classics, IFFI 2026 promises an extensive programme celebrating the many dimensions of cinema. The festival continues to strengthen India's position as a global destination for cinematic creativity, collaboration and cultural exchange.