The 56th International Film Festival of India (IFFI 2025) commenced on a grand and historic note in Panaji, as the festival unveiled its first-ever spectacular opening parade on 20 November. Transforming DB Road into a vibrant cultural boulevard, the event brought together dazzling floats from leading film production houses, participating states, and diverse cultural troupes. The procession moved from the iconic Old Goa Medical College building to the Kala Academy, featuring more than two dozen themed floats—12 of them presented by the Goa government—celebrating India’s cinematic heritage, animation artistry, and rich regional identities.
A standout attraction was the large-scale folk production “Bharat Ek Soor”, created by the Central Bureau of Communication under the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting, showcasing over 100 artists performing traditional dances. The parade also delighted audiences with appearances by beloved animated icons such as Chhota Bheem, Motu Patlu, and Bittu Bahanebaaz, drawing spirited cheers from spectators.
The parade created a carnival-like atmosphere across Panaji, turning the festival’s opening into an inclusive public celebration rather than a closed-door ceremony. Thousands of locals, tourists, and delegates lined the streets to witness the floats, cultural performances, and live music, making it one of the most memorable IFFI openings to date. The event successfully blended Goa’s carnival spirit with the festival’s cinematic grandeur, setting an energetic tone for the nine-day celebration that followed.
Goa Chief Minister Shri Pramod Sawant along with Governor of Goa Shri Pushpak Ashok Gajapathi Raju inaugurates IFFI 2025 with a vibrant grand parade in Panaji.
Anupam Kher, Shekhar Kapur and Nandamuri Balaakrishna make a striking presence at the IFFI 2025 grand parade in Panaji.
Beloved animated characters Chhota Bheem and Chutki delight crowds with their lively appearance at the IFFI 2025 Frand Parade.
Vibrant cultural performance from Haryana showcase the state’s rich folk traditions.
National Film Development Corporation showcases its presence with a thematic float.
Shree Shantadurga Babareshwar Yuvak Sangh Cultural presence at the Parade.
Artists from Kashmir add colour and charm to the IFFI 2025 grand parade.
Waves OTT marks its presence at the opening parade.
Blend of culture and Cinema shines through at the parade.
Artists from Uttarakhand add flair to the IFFI 2025 parade.
