The ongoing 54th edition of the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) is premiering meticulously restored Indian and international classics under its new Restored Classics section.
Among the featured classics are three iconic Bollywood films — Guide (1965) directed by Vijay Anand, Haqeeqat (1964) directed by Chetan Anand, and Bees Saal Baad (1962) directed by Biren Nag.
The Restored Classics section also pays homage to regional language cinema with films like Vidyapati (1937) in Bengali by Debaki Bose, Shyamchi Aai (1953) in Marathi by P.K. Are, Patala Bhairavi (1951) in Telugu by K.V. Reddy, and Chorus (1974) in Bengali by Mrinal Sen.
These films were once at risk of being lost due to damaged celluloid reels. The restoration has been made possible due to the efforts made under the National Film Heritage Mission.
In a nod to international cinema, the Restored Classics section will also feature three globally restored films — The Exorcist Extended Director’s Cut helmed by William Friedkin, Twilight by Gyorgy Feher and Sergei Parajanov’s Shadows of Forgotten Ancestors.
“An incredible opportunity awaits at #IFFI54 – a chance to delve into the restored Indian classics. Experience these films like never before, with stunning images and clear sound. Immerse yourself in the details of classics that have inspired generations of #IndianCinema,” the official handle of the festival posted on Instagram, along with posters of the movies to be screened under this initiative.
The 54th edition of IFFI kicked off in Goa on November 20 with the international premiere of Catching Dust, a film by the award-winning British filmmaker Stuart Gatt. Over 270 films will be screened at four venues during the festival, featuring 13 world premieres, 18 international premieres, 62 Asia premieres and 89 India premieres. In addition, 15 feature films (12 international and 3 Indian) will compete for the prestigious Golden Peacock award.
