The 55th International Film Festival of India (IFFI), starting on November 20 in Goa, will honour the centenaries of four iconic figures in Indian cinema: Raj Kapoor, Tapan Sinha, Akkineni Nageswara Rao (ANR), and Mohammed Rafi. Organizers announced that restored versions of classic films will be screened to highlight the remarkable contributions of these legends to the film industry.
The festival will begin with a tribute to the careers of each icon through an audio-visual presentation. The celebrations aim to inspire future generations by showcasing the lasting influence of these cinema giants. Key events include special days dedicated to each icon: ANR will be celebrated on November 22, Raj Kapoor on November 24, Mohammed Rafi on November 26, and Tapan Sinha on November 27.
A restored version of ANR’s 1953 classic, Devadasu, will be screened on his centenary day, while Sinha’s 1976 film Harmonium will be shown in his honour. Raj Kapoor’s 1951 hit Awaara will be showcased as a tribute to his multifaceted legacy in Bollywood. Mohammed Rafi’s songs from the 1961 film Hum Dono will be celebrated with improved audio-visuals.
In addition to film screenings, IFFI will feature panel discussions, a "My Stamp" series commemorating these stars, and a "Caravan of Songs" presenting 150 tracks by Kapoor and Rafi, along with 75 songs linked to ANR and Sinha. A unique sand art tribute by artist Sudarshan Pattnaik and an exhibition of rare memorabilia will also be on display.
IFFI 2024, concluding on November 28, promises to celebrate the achievements of these cinema legends and their impact on Indian cinema.
