Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar: “Prime Minister Narendra Modi has continuously underlined the value of cinema as a “soft power” and offered the film industry his support. During his visit to the 10th Ajanta Ellora International Film Festival (AIFF) in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, Mr. Sanjay Jaju, Secretary, Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Government of India, said, “Indian films are attracting global audiences and receiving exceptional appreciation worldwide today.”
Originally slated to attend the festival’s inauguration ceremony on January 15th, Mr. Jaju was forced to postpone his plans for some unanticipated reasons. The following day, though, he went to the festival and spoke with the organizers and attendees. AIFF’s Honorary Chairperson and celebrated filmmaker Ashutosh Gowariker, The Organizing Committee Chairperson Nandkishore Kagliwal, Festival Director Sunil Sukthankar, Artistic Director Chandrakant Kulkarni, Creative Directors Jayprad Desai, Gyanesh Zhoting, Shiv Kadam, and convener Nilesh Raut were among the distinguished individuals who extended him a warm welcome at the festival.
In his reflection on India’s rich cultural legacy, Mr. Jaju emphasized that the country’s long and rich history of art, drama, dance, and music from the ancient Natya Shastra is supplemented by modern cinema. One year has passed since I took on the role of Union Secretary. It is incredibly motivating to observe the cultural dynamism and diversity of cinema in places like Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar and at events like AIFF during this time. He said, “The local communities’ combined efforts to create this festival are greatly appreciated.”
Mr. Jaju said he was happy to be at the festival. He also went to Ashutosh Gowarker’s Masterclass, and he was blown away by the exchanges and insights. He gave the audience his word that the Indian government would fully support creative projects like the AIFF, which are notable for their originality. He reaffirmed, “The central government is dedicated to supporting such extraordinary endeavors and guaranteeing their expansion in the future.”