The Hindu : National : Rich cultural fare awaits IFFI delegates

Online edition of India's National Newspaper
Thursday, Nov 25, 2004

National

National

Rich cultural fare awaits IFFI delegates

By Anil Sastry

PANAJI, NOV. 24. A rich fiesta of dance, drama and music for 10 days from November 29 awaits delegates to the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) and the Goans.

The Entertainment Society of Goa (ESG), co-host of the 35th IFFI-Goa, has in store famous Konkani plays to fusion jazz concert; Goan folk dance to Salsa dancers; tattoo making to face painting; bangle makers to balloon sculpture; jugglers to hair braiders.

Shripad Naik, Member of Parliament and IFFI coordination committee chairman, said, "IFFI would be a great opportunity to showcase to the world, Goa's unique blend of culture, offerings and attractions."

Colourful lamps in Government buildings, roads, parks and bridges in the city would mark the announcement of the festival on November 28. Special stages and stalls would be set up, featuring cultural programmes, karaoke evenings, painting galleries, Goan handicrafts, cane works, sculptures and food products, on the promenade along the Mandovi river.The event will begin with a cultural parade on November 29 at 2.30 p.m. from Ribandar Circle to Bal Bhavan featuring giant floats depicting Goan culture and music. It will be followed by a musical show, presented by local bands — Tidal Wave and Forefront. In the evening, there will be a performance by A.R. Rahman.

The amphitheatre at Kala Academy will host various Konkani and Marathi theatre performances, music concerts and a Hindi play — "Kuch Bhi Ho Sakta Hai" — starring Anupam Kher from November 30. This will be open to the public.

The focal point is the debut of beach screening in the country. A weeklong festival featuring mega blockbusters will be screened at the Miramar Beach from November 30.

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