“We received more than 250 entries from across the country, with a significant number from the Northeast,” shared Subbiah Nallamuthu, Chairperson of the Indian Panorama Non-Feature Films Jury, during a press conference at the 55th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in Goa.
“Filmmakers from various walks of life including college students and young creators have submitted their entries. Content and storytelling remained the key selection criteria,” he added.
Shalini Shah, a jury member, expressed excitement about the selection of a Ladakhi film as the opening film, calling it “a rare and proud occasion.” She also highlighted the progress in Haryanvi cinema, attributing the improvement in craft to dedicated mentoring initiatives.
The jury emphasized the urgent need to shine a spotlight on non-feature films. Vandana Kohli stated, “We need to talk more about these films in the media and create film clubs to generate awareness among audiences and filmmakers.” She stressed the importance of mentoring, pointing out that while the content is often exceptional, the craft of editing and storytelling could benefit from professional guidance.
Reflecting on the emerging trends, the jury noted a promising increase in entries from the Northeast. They also applauded the efforts of urban filmmakers who are traveling to remote regions to create impactful documentaries, as reflected in the themes of several selected films this year.
The panel collectively called for greater support for documentary filmmaking, noting that the lack of viable platforms hinders their reach. They urged OTT platforms to take the lead in commissioning and promoting non-feature films. “Awareness generation, funding, and a structured channel for promotion are critical to supporting this genre,” they said.
The jury also suggested that the government may consider channelling CSR funds towards individual non-feature film projects to provide financial backing. They welcomed the National Film Development Corporation’s (NFDC) recent initiatives to finance non-feature films in the Northeast, along with the launch of the Documentary Resource Initiative.
The Non-Feature Film Jury, comprising seven members, is headed by Subbiah Nallamuthu, a renowned documentary filmmaker and FTII alumni who is a recipient of several awards including the coveted V. Shantaram Lifetime Achievement Award, five National Film Awards and served as jury for several international & national film festivals. The Non-Feature Jury constituted of the following members who have to their credit many acclaimed films, and who individually represent various film bodies and professions, while collectively representing the rich and diverse Indian film fraternity:
The Non-Feature Film Jury for IFFI 2024 comprises:
- Subbiah Nallamuthu (Chairperson)
- Rajnikant Acharya, Producer and Film Director
- Ronel Haobam, Film Director
- Usha Deshpande, Film Director and Producer
- Vandana Kohli, Film Director and Writer
- Mithunchandra Chaudhari, Film Director
- Shalini Shah, Film Director
Concluding the press conference, Vandana Kohli remarked, “We need to understand documentaries, comprehend them, and celebrate them.” Sayyid Rabeehashmi moderated the Press Conference.
At IFFI 2024, 20 non-feature films will be screened in the Indian Panorama selected from a spectrum of 262 films. The package of Non-Feature Films exemplifies the capacity of emerging and established filmmakers to document, investigate, entertain and also reflect contemporary Indian values. The Jury’s choice for the opening film in the non-feature category is ‘Ghar Jaisa Kuch (Ladakhi)’, directed by Shri Harsh Sangani.
The 55th IFFI continues to serve as a vital platform for filmmakers, fostering dialogue, innovation, and collaboration within the global film community.
