Ashutosh Gowariker appointed Festival Director for 57th IFFI
The Ministry of Information & Broadcasting has appointed Ashutosh Gowariker as Festival Director for the 57th International Film Festival of India (IFFI). The festival is scheduled to be held in Goa in November 2026. Gowariker is a celebrated filmmaker known for his distinctive storytelling and has a long association with IFFI, including attendance since 1984 and serving as Jury President for International Cinema in 2024. His appointment is expected to bring a fresh vision and enhanced international engagement to one of Asia’s largest film festivals, aligning with India's cultural diplomacy goals.
Ashutosh Gowariker named Festival Director for IFFI 57.
IFFI 57 to be held in Goa, November 2026.
Gowariker known for iconic films and storytelling.
He has attended IFFI since 1984; Jury President for International Cinema in 2024.
May 01, 2026
First BRICS Culture Working Group meets in New Delhi concludes
The first Culture Working Group meeting under India’s BRICS Presidency 2026 concluded in New Delhi, with BRICS partners participating virtually. The Indian delegation included Vivek Aggarwal, Secretary of the Ministry of Culture, and Dr. Sachchidanand Joshi from the Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts. The Ministry of Culture highlighted cultural exchanges and people‑to‑people ties as central themes, aligned with the BRICS emphasis on shared heritage and collaboration. The presidency‑level theme is Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability, reflecting India’s push for cultural diplomacy within BRICS.
Meeting concluded in New Delhi
BRICS culture focus under India’s presidency
Participants included Vivek Aggarwal and Dr. Joshi
Emphasis on cultural exchanges and people‑to‑people ties
Theme: Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability