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Jagran Film Festival 2025: Rajnigandha presents the 13th edition of the Jagran Film Festival (JFF), which kicked off with a bang at Siri Fort Auditorium in Delhi. Cinema enthusiasts, students, and families came together to celebrate the purest form of storytelling. The day began with a special presentation of JFF Little Lights, tailored specifically for children, setting the stage for a day filled with engaging conversations and cinematic talent.

The festival's highlight was the panel discussion "The Art of Critiquing and Curating Cinema," where industry stalwarts Girish Kasaravalli, Khushbu Sundar, Ravi K. Chandran, and Utpal Borpujari shared their insights. They discussed the significance of regional cinema and how mainstream Hindi films are losing their connection with audiences due to a disconnect from reality and cultural roots.

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"Inspector Zend" World Premiere Steals The Show

The Jagran Film Festival witnessed the world premiere of Netflix's film "Inspector Zend," starring Manoj Bajpayee and Jim Sarbh. The screening was followed by an engaging conversation with the cast, including Manoj Bajpayee and Jim Sarbh, director Chinmay D. Mandlekar, and Ruchika Kapoor Shekh, Director of Original Films at Netflix India. The discussion offered a glimpse into the making of the film and the creative process behind it.

Manoj Bajpayee Shares Insights on His Role

Manoj Bajpayee discussed his character in the film "Inspector Zend," highlighting the contrast between his character's lack of skill and the international criminal he's up against. He emphasised the importance of theatre training in India, advocating for more government institutions like the National School of Drama (NSD) to support aspiring theatre artists, particularly from the middle class.

Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw Addresses Event

Union Minister of Information and Broadcasting, Ashwini Vaishnaw, praised the Jagran Film Festival (JFF) for providing a powerful platform for aspiring filmmakers and audiences, especially in smaller cities. He announced new initiatives, including restructuring NFDC and renovating Siri Fort Auditorium. Over 650 films will be showcased during the festival, highlighting international cinema's resonance with Indian audiences.

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Stories Leave A Lasting Impact - Basant Rathore

Basant Rathore, Sr. Vice President of Jagran Prakashan Ltd., shared the festival's vision, saying, "JFF aims to present the best of cinema to audiences worldwide. When people experience impactful stories, it leaves a deep impression on them and shapes their perspective."

The inaugural session was attended by notable guests, including:
- Manoj Bajpayee
- R. Balki
- Khushbu Sundar
- Rajesh Kumar (Director, DS Group)
- Ruchika Kapoor Shekh (Netflix India)
- Sanjay Gupta (Director & Editor-in-Chief, Jagran Prakashan Ltd.)