The consumption of content on OTT platforms has now become an integral part of our daily lives. The ascent of OTT content and platforms in India occurred during the pandemic, and since then, some of the finest web series and films have had exclusive digital releases. Recognizing the significant presence of OTT, the 54th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) is set to acknowledge and honor content from OTT platforms for the very first time in the festival’s history.
The Union Information and Broadcasting Minister, Anurag Thakur, unveiled the festival’s schedule at a curtain-raiser event held in New Delhi on Monday.
He emphasized that Indian cinema has reached every corner of the nation and is now extending its influence to the far reaches of the world. The Indian media and entertainment industry stands as a formidable force, ranking fifth in the global market. Over the past three years, it has exhibited consistent growth, with an average annual growth rate of 20 percent.
Regarding the introduction of OTT awards, Anurag Thakur underlined the boom witnessed in the OTT industry in India since the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic. Original content produced in India has had a significant economic impact, providing employment for thousands of individuals. In recognition of the dynamic and rapidly evolving landscape of this sector, which is experiencing a remarkable 28 percent annual growth rate, the Ministry has instituted these awards to honor exceptional content creators on OTT platforms.
He further mentioned that the festival has received a total of 32 entries across 10 languages from 15 OTT platforms this year.
The festival will open with the UK thriller film “Catching Dust” and conclude with the screening of the 2023 American biographical sports drama “The Featherweight.”
Anurag Thakur also shared that the prestigious Satyajit Ray Excellence in Film Lifetime Award will be presented to the renowned Hollywood actor and producer, Michael Douglas, a shining star in the world of cinema. Michael Douglas will be personally present to accept this prestigious accolade, alongside his wife, the acclaimed actor Catherine Zeta-Jones.
The festival will feature over 270 films across four different venues.
Post Your Comments