New Delhi: The International Film Festival of India (IFFI) will honour four legends of Indian cinema — Raj Kapoor, Tapan Sinha, Akkineni Nageswara Rao (ANR) and Mohammed Rafi — at its 55th edition in Goa.
Odisha’s renowned sand artist Sudarshan Pattnaik’s sand art illustration will also be displayed at the nine-day festival to celebrate the legends.
“The 55th IFFI’s centenary celebrations are a homage to the enduring influence of Raj Kapoor, Tapan Sinha, Akkineni Nageswara Rao, and Mohammed Rafi on Indian cinema. By bringing together art, history, and interactive experiences, IFFI seeks to inspire future generations through the legacies of these luminaries. Join us as we celebrate the spirit of Indian cinema and honour the legends who continue to inspire audiences and creators worldwide,” stated a press release.
During the opening ceremony of IFFI on November 20, an audiovisual presentation showcasing the cinematic journey of the legends will be screened for the audience.
Nageswara Rao will be celebrated on November 22, Raj Kapoor on November 24, Rafi on November 26, and Sinha on November 27.
A restored version of ANR’s ‘Devadasu’, Sinha’s ‘Harmonium’, Kapoor’s ‘Awaara’ and Rafi’s songs from the movie ‘Hum Dono’ will be screened during the festival.
While ANR and Sinha’s birth centenaries were observed on September 20 and October 2, respectively, Kapoor and Rafi’s centenaries will be celebrated on December 14 and December 24, respectively.
During the festival, a panel discussion will be held with family members of the legends to know more about their lives and legacies.
IFFI will also be releasing a ‘Caravan of Songs’ featuring 150 songs by Kapoor and Rafi, and 75 songs dedicated to Sinha and ANR.
Rare photographs and artifacts from the lives of ANR, Kapoor, Sinha and Rafi will be on display at an exhibition during the festival.