India’s top stars to headline the New York Indian Film Festival this May

- ADVERTISEMENT -

The Indo American Arts Council announced the roster of films and the stars who will be making appearances at the New York Indian Film Festival May 11-14, 2023.

Considered the longest running festival of its kind in the U.S., the highly anticipated event will be headlined by, among others, Shefali Shah and Kalki Koechlin, known for their critically acclaimed performances which will also be seen on the big screen –Shefali Shah as the lead in the opening film Three of Us, and Kalki Koechlin as the lead for the closing film Goldfish.

The festival will screen more than 20 features, documentaries and shorts.

Opening night will be held on May 11 at Village East by Angelika. Closing Night will be held on May 14 at SVA Theatre and will include the NYIFF AWARDS.

“As we celebrate the 23^rd year of the New York Indian Film Festival, we are thrilled to witness the global recognition of Indian cinema with not just one, but three Indian films being acknowledged at the Oscars. This milestone highlights the incredible talent and diversity of Indian cinema, and we are honored to showcase some of the best works of Indian filmmakers to our audience,” IAAC Executive Director Suman Gollamudi, is quoted saying in the press release. “We are committed to providing a platform for independent voices and stories that captivate and resonate with audiences worldwide, and we look forward to another year of celebrating the rich culture and cinematic heritage of India,” Gollamudi added.

Vice Chairman, IAAC Rakesh Kaul said, “At IAAC, we value our classical arts that are rooted deeply in our civilization, and we believe in nurturing and celebrating them joyfully. Through the New York Indian Film Festival, we strive to showcase not only the latest trends in Indian cinema but also the timeless traditions that have enriched our culture for centuries.”

Chairman of IAAC Nirmal Mattoo said the organization is committed to its mission of promoting Indian art and culture through a variety of initiatives and programs. “We are proud to serve as a platform for artists, scholars, and practitioners to share their talents and insights with audiences across the United States and beyond. We are excited to continue expanding our reach and impact in the years to come.”

Director of the NYIFF Aseem Chhabra said, “After a hiatus of three years we are thrilled to be back with a physical film festival,” adding, “Once again our audience will interact with the filmmakers, discuss and celebrate new Indian cinema. The mission of NYIFF has and will always be to elevate the very best filmmakers and storytellers featuring India and its culture.”

Apart from the opening and closing films, NYIFF will also hold a special New York screening of Rahul Chittella’s critically acclaimed film Gulmohar on May 12 at 6.30 PM. In attendance will be actors Sharmila Tagore and Manoj Bajpayee and director Chittella.

The rest of the NYIFF line-up will be announced in a few weeks and more details including the link to buy tickets, after parties and panel discussions will be available at nyiff.us, the organizers said in its press