Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao Calls for Cinematic Diversity at Bangalore Film Festival
In a pointed critique of contemporary film trends, Karnataka Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao, speaking at the valedictory ceremony of the 17th Bangalore International Film Festival (BIFFes) on Friday, asserted that cinema must not be confined to a single style or perspective. He underscored that freedom of expression is indispensable for both artistic creativity and the health of democracy, urging filmmakers to embrace a broad spectrum of stories.
Rao Emphasizes Public Responsibility of Filmmakers
Rao highlighted the significant public responsibility borne by filmmakers, encouraging them to resist pressures that might narrow the range of narratives presented on screen. "Freedom of expression is crucial and we must preserve it. Art plays a big role in that," he stated. "Producers, directors, and everyone involved must take up that responsibility. Films should not be restricted to one type, whether commercial, art, or middle-ground cinema. All forms should coexist. However, in recent times, we observe many films limited to a single opinion."
He further elaborated on the democratic imperative of artistic freedom, noting, "Freedom to express thoughts and ideas in any visual or artistic medium is essential for democracy. At times, we are left wondering whether we are preserving it adequately. Those in the arts must have the courage to create films that express all viewpoints." Rao specifically called upon Kannada filmmakers to be bold in their creative choices, advocating for an environment where every perspective finds space. "We must create an atmosphere where every perspective finds space. Preserving that freedom is a shared responsibility towards art," he added.
Hamsalekha Echoes Minister's Views, Highlights Southern Cinema's Impact
Composer and lyricist Hamsalekha, who received the lifetime achievement award at the festival, resonated with Rao's sentiments. He remarked that the global acclaim for films like ‘KGF' and ‘Kantara' imposes a duty on industry stakeholders to uphold democratic values. Quoting poet Da Ra Bendre's line, "Uttara Dhruvadim Dakshina Dhruvaku Chumbaka Gaaliyu Beesuthide" (magnetic winds are blowing from North Pole to South Pole), Hamsalekha observed that the success of southern cinema has catalyzed cultural winds blowing from south to north India. He emphasized that Karnataka's rich legacy, shaped by figures like Basavanna, obliges the film industry to serve as a guardian of democracy.
BIFFes 2026: Record Attendance and Award Highlights
The Bangalore International Film Festival, inaugurated on January 30, achieved remarkable milestones, recording a footfall of over one lakh attendees and attracting approximately 11,000 delegates from around the world. A total of 248 feature films were showcased across 13 screens at three venues, highlighting the event's global reach and cultural significance.
Festival ambassador Prakash Raj reiterated his criticism regarding the absence of Palestinian films at BIFFes, asserting, "No one has the right to reject the painful stories that people bring from their countries. The pain of society keeps growing as long as we remain silent."
Award Winners at BIFFes 2026
The festival recognized outstanding cinematic achievements across multiple categories:
- Lifetime Achievement Award: Hamsalekha
- Asian Cinema:
- Best Film: Lost Land (Hara Vatan) — Japan, France, Malaysia, Germany
- Second-Best Film: Shape of Momo — India
- Third-Best Film: The Deepest Space in Us — Japan
- Special Jury Mention: Republika ng Pipolipinas — Philippines
- Indian Cinema:
- Best Film: Sabar Bonda (Cactus Pears) — Marathi
- Second-Best Film: Moham (Desire) — Malayalam
- Third-Best Film: Kaadu — Malayalam
- Special Jury Mention: Sarkeet — Malayalam
- FIPRESCI Award: Gondhal — Marathi
- Kannada Cinema:
- Best Film: Vanya
- Second-Best Film: Nam Saali
- Third-Best Film: Raavana Rajyadalli Navadampathigalu
- Special Jury Mentions: 4 by 4 and Mrigatrishna
- NETPAC International Jury Award: Hakkigagi
