EntertainmentPosted at: Dec 14 2025 12:59AM


India’s freedom struggle mirrors present-day Palestine: Ambassador at IFFK

Thiruvananthapuram, Dec 13 (UNI) The opening film of the 30th International Film Festival of Kerala (IFFK), 'Palestine 36', offers a vital platform for presenting the Palestinian narrative and examining the historical roots of the Israel–Palestine conflict, Palestine Ambassador to India Abdullah Abu Shawesh said on Saturday.
The Ambassador said Palestinians had long been denied the opportunity to tell their own story, even prior to the establishment of Israel.
He described the screening of 'Palestine 36' as a significant moment that highlights the “who, why and how” of the conflict from a Palestinian perspective.
Ambassador Shawesh revealed that discussions have been underway for over two months with India’s Ministry of External Affairs on India’s potential role in the reconstruction and rehabilitation of Gaza. He noted that the present Indian government has undertaken commendable initiatives in support of the Palestinian people.
Drawing parallels with India’s freedom movement, the Ambassador referred to Mahatma Gandhi and Bhagat Singh as symbols of two distinct ideological paths of resistance.
He observed that just as Bhagat Singh was branded a terrorist by the British, those resisting occupation today are similarly labelled. He also pointed to the influence of Gandhian philosophy on Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, who advocates peaceful, legal and diplomatic resistance.
“India’s freedom struggle reflects the present plight of Palestine,” he said.
The Ambassador noted that information related to Palestine is often censored on social media, making cultural platforms like IFFK crucial for showcasing Palestinian culture, heritage and cuisine to the Indian public.
He expressed gratitude to the people of Kerala for the warm reception extended to Palestine.
Ambassador Shawesh said he had personally spoken with Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and praised the state’s strong commitment to peace, justice and international law.
Emphasising the importance of cultural forums, he said festivals like IFFK must continue to act as a voice for the voiceless, adding that the very fact that the opening film begins with the word “Palestine” underscores the significance accorded to their cause.
Speaking on cinema in Palestine, the Ambassador said Israeli occupation remains the biggest challenge faced by Palestinian filmmakers, noting that Israel does not permit film shoots in Palestine.
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