First-ever film festival starts tomorrow in Mandi; 40 movies to be screened
MANDI: Famous as the cultural capital of Himachal Pradesh, Mandi is set to host its first-ever film festival, a landmark event in the city’s history.
The four-day festival, from June 27 to June 30, will be held at the Cultural House, offering a unique opportunity for residents and visitors to experience a diverse range of cinematic works.
The festival, organised by Pawan Sharma and Raja Singh Malhotra, promises to be a celebration of literature and true events through the medium of film.
A total of 40 films will be screened, all free of charge, though prior registration is required. The registration counter was inaugurated at Seri Manch in Mandi on Wednesday (June 26, 2024), allowing attendees to secure their spots for this exciting event.
In addition to film screenings, the festival will feature discussion sessions on the films and workshops for artistes, fostering a deeper engagement with the art of cinema. The opening day will spotlight Himachali cinema, showcasing the region’s unique cultural narratives.
Renowned Bollywood artistes, including Akhilendra Mishra, Sapna, Vibhu Sant, Aditya Srivastava, Hemant Pandey, Neeraj Sood and Yashpal Sharma, are slated to attend, adding star power to the festival. Organisers Pawan Sharma and Raja Singh Malhotra have called on the residents of Mandi to participate in large numbers and take advantage of this unprecedented cultural opportunity.
Local artists and performers are abuzz with excitement. Pawan Sharma, originally from Mandi District and now a well-known figure in Mumbai’s film industry, has played a pivotal role in bringing this festival to fruition.
The event also provides a platform for other artists from Mandi who have made a name in the film and theatre industries to contribute to their hometown.
Mandi city residents and artistes Sapna Sand Pihu, and Gagan Pradeep Sharma expressed their pride in hosting a film festival in their city. This festival will offer audiences a chance to experience authentic cinema.
The event will kick off with the screening of Gagan Pradeep Sharma’s film “The Rabbit House”, making its debut on stage.
The film festival in Mandi is not just an event; it’s a cultural milestone, promising to enrich the city’s artistic landscape and provide a vibrant platform for cinematic expression.
