The 23rd Pune International Film Festival (PIFF) was inaugurated in a grand ceremony yesterday at the Ganesh Kala Krida Manch. 

 

 

The festival, jointly organised by the Pune Film Foundation and the Maharashtra government, will conclude on February 20. 

 

 

Speaking at the inauguration function, state Cultural Affairs Minister Ashish Shelar announced that the government will set up a Centre of Excellence for the film and entertainment industry in Mumbai’s Film City.

 

 

 

The inauguration was attended by several distinguished guests, including Vikas Kharge, principal secretary, of cultural affairs; Swati Mhase Patil, MD, Film City; and filmmaker Shaji Karun. ‘Celebrating the Showman’, is the theme of the festival which marks the birth centenary of veteran actor Raj Kapoor. 

 

 

Veteran actress Shubha Khote was honoured with the PIFF Distinguished Award for her outstanding contribution to Indian cinema. Kavita Krishnamurthy received the prestigious SD Burman International Award for creative music and sound.