The New York Indian Film Festival (NYIFF) is set to celebrate its 25th edition this year from June 20-22, with a special tribute to legendary Indian filmmaker Shyam Benegal. The festival, known for showcasing Indian independent cinema, will feature a diverse selection of films from celebrated artists such as Manoj Bajpayee, Nawazuddin Siddiqui, and Rasika Dugal. As the longest-running U.S. festival dedicated to Indian cinema, the NYIFF will spotlight bold new voices and veteran auteurs while reflecting on the evolution of Indian film.
Celebrating Indian Cinema’s Diversity and Impact
The NYIFF’s silver jubilee will feature a powerful lineup of films, from personal documentaries to regional narratives rarely seen on global platforms. Festival Director Aseem Chhabra expressed his excitement in a recent statement, calling this year’s selection one of the most varied and impactful to date. “From deeply personal documentaries to regional stories that rarely reach global audiences, the 25th edition of NYIFF reflects the evolving language of Indian cinema,” Chhabra said.
Honoring Shyam Benegal: A Tribute to a Cinematic Titan
A key highlight of this year’s festival will be a tribute to Shyam Benegal, one of the most influential figures in Indian cinema. Benegal, known for his work in parallel cinema, passed away in December 2024 at the age of 90. The NYIFF will honor his legacy by screening a 4K restoration of his landmark 1976 film Manthan. The film, which chronicles India’s White Revolution, was restored by the Film Heritage Foundation and made its debut at the Cannes Classics in 2024.
A Diverse Lineup with Global Appeal
This year’s festival promises to be a celebration of both new and established voices in Indian cinema. The lineup includes films from renowned actors such as Manoj Bajpayee and Nawazuddin Siddiqui, known for their powerful performances in Indian cinema. Additionally, the festival will showcase works by acclaimed directors like James Ivory and Rasika Dugal, expanding the festival’s reach beyond traditional Bollywood fare to include a variety of genres and styles.
A Platform for Indian Independent Cinema
NYIFF began as a grassroots platform for Indian filmmakers, and over the years, it has grown into a globally recognized stage for showcasing independent Indian cinema. It has become a prominent event for promoting films that tell important stories from India and its diaspora, highlighting the diversity and depth of the country’s film industry.
Chhabra highlighted that the festival’s silver jubilee serves as a reminder of how far Indian independent cinema has come. “What began as a grassroots platform is now a global stage for Indian independent cinema,” he added. The festival’s continued success has been driven by its commitment to showcasing films that reflect the complexities and richness of Indian society.
Restoration of Iconic Cinema
The screening of Manthan in 4K restoration is a fitting tribute to Benegal, whose work has had a lasting impact on Indian and global cinema. The film is a seminal piece in the history of Indian cinema, highlighting the story of rural farmers’ struggle for better milk production during India’s White Revolution. It remains a poignant reflection of India’s socio-political landscape in the 1970s and continues to inspire filmmakers today.
Looking Ahead: NYIFF’s Commitment to Global Cinema
As the NYIFF continues to grow, it remains committed to providing a platform for Indian filmmakers to share their unique perspectives with the world. The 25th edition promises to bring even more attention to the creative talent emerging from India, offering audiences a chance to discover new voices and narratives that may have otherwise gone unnoticed.
The 25th edition of the New York Indian Film Festival is shaping up to be a milestone event, celebrating the enduring legacy of Shyam Benegal and showcasing the diverse and dynamic voices of Indian cinema. From the restoration of Manthan to the debut of new works, this year’s festival is a testament to the power and global appeal of Indian independent films.
