During an exclusive event for filmmakers, Naseeruddin Shah, a prominent Indian actor and director, emphasised the importance of films and commented on their complexity during his keynote address.
“It is important for you to present the truth,” Shah stated when discussing filmmaking. “It is vitally important that filmmakers realise their responsibility to act as a record of their times. Cinema is the only medium that can do that,” he postulated.
Later in the day, a red carpet event was held at Cinema NOS for filmmakers, distinguished guests, and leaders of the Jamat to celebrate the achievements of the filmmakers and continue discussions around the art of filmmaking.
“It is a form of therapy,” expressed participant Ayaz Palma of Portugal when talking about capturing the world with a camera. “Start doing more of what you love, grab your camera, and just start capturing,” he added.
To officially commence the start of the International Film Festival, filmmakers and guests gathered in a reception area to watch the official trailer for the festival. The trailer featured a montage of all of the selected submissions that came in from the global Jamat.
In the audience, family members shared their emotions of gratitude for this wonderful opportunity and a sense of pride in their relatives’ achievements.
“I said this in the morning, but it stands reiteration that the example of the Ismaili community is something; their generosity, the selflessness for working in the community, emphasis on education, their philanthropic habits,” expressed Naseeruddin Shah. “Everything wonderful starts from the top, and for this reason, I would like to take this opportunity to convey my grateful and humble thanks to His Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan for his enlightened, compassionate, and forward-looking leadership,” he concluded.
Hundreds of talented artists are being celebrated for their work at the International Arts Festival, while thousands more were discovered in the process through regional and national festivals held around the globe. Collectively, these artists are helping to foster an appreciation for art amongst the Jamat and establish a legacy that will continue for decades to come.
The film festival will be held daily from 7 to 9 July at NOS Cinemas. Tickets are required and can be reserved at jubilee.blueticket.pt free of charge.
