Entertainment


Kerala: Thrissur prison hosts International Film Festival

Thrissur, Mar 24 (UNI) In a groundbreaking initiative, the Viyyur Central Jail in Kerala's Thrissur opened its gates on Monday for a five-day international film festival aimed at promoting rehabilitation and social change among inmates, seeking to bring the power of storytelling and visual art into the lives of nearly 1,000 inmates.

Organised by International Film Festival of Thrissur in collaboration with the Kerala State Film Development Corporation, Kerala Chalachitra and the State Prison Department, the five-day 'Thiruthu' (correctional) Festival seeks to leverage the transmuting power of cinema offering a platform for marginalised voices.
Over 25 films from more than 10 countries including France, Japan, Italy, Peru, the USA will be screened during the festival.
Speaking at the inaugural ceremony, IFFT Chairman M.P.M. Surendran highlighted, "The event which will showcase classic world cinemas, will provide a solace to the dull and isolating environment of prison."
Esteemed cultural luminaries poet and lyricist Rafeeq Ahmad, actor Sunil Sukhda, Director Priyanandan, Poet P N Gopikrishnan and footballer I M Vijayan graced the event, each shared their thoughts on how cinema can inspire change and rejuvenate the lives of inmates.
"The festival promises to instill seeds of transformation among prisoners and catalyse personal evolution", added Surenedran.
IFFT Executive Director Cherian Joseph stated, "It marks the beginning of a new chapter in Indian cinema festivals and is set to grow over time, leading to a greater understanding of how art and culture can play a pivotal role in the rehabilitation of individuals." UNI PMD SSP
More News

It's a question of whether we let our creation become a Frankenstein: actor Parambrata on AI

11 Nov 2025 | 5:46 PM

Kolkata, Nov 11 (UNI) Amidst the growing use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in cinema, various stakeholders here acknowledged its transformative role while simultaneously advising caution, saying it must remain a servant to imagination rather than its substitute.

see more..

North East connects Film Festival to screen 12 regional films at Hyderabad IMAX

11 Nov 2025 | 5:23 PM

Hyderabad, Nov 11 (UNI) A special film festival celebrating India’s cultural and cinematic diversity will be held on November 21 and 22 at IMAX Theatre, Hyderabad, as part of the North East Connect programme.

see more..

'Sounds of Kumbha' earns Grammy nomination, showcasing India's spiritual essence on global stage

11 Nov 2025 | 4:47 PM

Lucknow, Nov 11 (UNI) In a proud moment for India and Uttar Pradesh, 'Sounds of Kumbha', a spiritual album inspired by the Mahakumbha festival and presented by singer-composer Siddhant Bhatia, has earned a nomination at the 68th Grammy Awards in the Best Global Music Album category.

see more..

‘Gustaakh Ishq’ trailer unveiled: Manish Malhotra debuts film production

11 Nov 2025 | 1:13 PM

New Delhi, Nov 11 (UNI) The makers of the much-anticipated romantic period drama ‘Gustaakh Ishq’, starring Vijay Varma and Fatima Sana Shaikh, have finally unveiled the film’s trailer.

see more..

Bollywood celebrities urges strength and safety for Delhi

11 Nov 2025 | 12:22 PM

New Delhi, Nov 11 (UNI) Following a high-intensity blast near the Red Fort in Delhi, which claimed at least eight lives, members of the film fraternity have expressed their condolences to the victims and their families.

see more..