The Bengal metropolis of Kolkata, renowned for its deep-rooted cultural and cinematic heritage, dazzled with star presence as veteran actor Anil Kapoor adorned the inauguration of the first-ever Kolkata French Film Festival. The event kicked off on February 16 at the city’s popular cultural venue, Nandan, marking a significant moment for the international film community. This 8-day cinematic extravaganza was brought to inception by the collaborative efforts of the West Bengal government and the Alliance Française du Bengale, symbolizing a bridge between the French and Indian cinematic traditions.
Gracing the ceremony, Anil Kapoor, a luminary of the Indian film industry, was welcomed as the esteemed chief guest. In a touching homage to his illustrious career that spans decades, Anil Kapoor was bestowed with an exclusive behind-the-scenes photograph from his renowned early work ‘Kahan Kahan Se Guzar Gaya.’ The memento, captured by the legendary photographer Nemai Ghosh, offered attendees an intimate look at the film’s production—invoking a sense of nostalgia and profound respect for the creative process.
The event proved to be a poignant homecoming for Kapoor who reflected on his personal journey in the annals of cinema. He reminisced about ‘Kahan Kahan Se Guzar Gaya,’ which marked his formal entry into the acting world, filmed in the very heart of Kolkata in 1980. “Kolkata means a lot to me because I started my career here,” he declared with visible emotion, adding, “This is one of the best cinema destinations, and both France and Bengal have some of the best filmmakers.”
Furthermore, Kapoor addressed the enthusiastic audience, expressing his appreciation for the opportunity to partake in the inauguration. He underscored the importance of international film festivals like this as platforms for advancing cross-cultural understanding and reinforcing the universal language of cinema. Praising the efforts of the organizers, he acknowledged their role in fostering a rich dialogue between filmmakers and film aficionados from across borders, thus nurturing unity within diversity.
This pioneering film festival is structured around four primary categories, celebrating various facets of French and Indian cinema: French New Wave, French Contemporary Films, Films for Young Audiences, and a special spotlight on Indian Filmmakers who have been featured in the prestigious Cannes Film Festival.
As the inaugural event unfolded, the French Film Festival in Kolkata set a precedent not just for this culturally vibrant city but for the broader engagement between Indian and French artistry. With the magnetic appeal of stars like Anil Kapoor, coupled with the collective anticipation of attendees, the festival is anticipated to yield an overwhelming success, setting the stage for continued partnerships and cultural interchanges between the two nations.
Shedding light on Anil Kapoor’s path in the film industry, it is noteworthy that his intended debut with ‘Kahan Kahan Se Guzar Gaya’ in Hindi cinema was initially deferred due to unforeseen delays. Returning to the present, Kapoor delights fans and critics alike in his latest venture, ‘Fighter,’ where he stars opposite Hrithik Roshan and Deepika Padukone. The film, launched a day before India’s Republic Day, delves into the dramatized aftermath of the Pulwama terror attack, the subsequent Indian airstrike on a terrorist camp, and an unfolding love story amid the narrative of national defense.
The Kolkata French Film Festival’s inception was met with great fervor, encapsulating the essence of a city lauded for its historical contribution to the arts. As the festival’s lights illuminate the path ahead, endeavors such as these bring forth the transformative power of cinema, bridging hearts and transcending borders.
