The Business Bytes
Bhubaneswar, December 15, 2024 (TBB Bureau): The curtains fell on the 5th Kalinga Global Film Festival (KGFF) with an electrifying closing ceremony, highlighted by the charismatic presence of acclaimed actor Amit Sial. Organized by KIIT Deemed to be University, the festival celebrated the best of cinema and cultural exchange over three vibrant days.
Amit Sial, known for his stellar performances in TV series like Maharani and Jamtara as well as films like Titli, captivated the audience with his profound reflections on cinema and culture. During an interactive session, Sial expressed his admiration for Odisha’s rich heritage and even hinted at a future collaboration with Odia cinema. “If the story is good, I will definitely act in an Odia movie,” he said, sparking excitement among the audience. He also emphasized the importance of showcasing India’s traditional art forms in modern cinema, saying, “We have amazing talent in our country. Tribal dances and music, which were a staple in old movies, should find a place in today’s cinema too.”
Sial’s visit to the KIIT and KISS campuses was equally memorable. He expressed admiration for KIIT’s sprawling campuses and the vision of its founder, Dr. Achyuta Samanta. “What Dr. Samanta is doing is quite admirable. I traveled across the campuses, and all of them are mesmerizing. This visit has been truly memorable,” Sial remarked. Earlier in the day, he was welcomed with traditional dances and songs at the KISS campus, showcasing Odisha’s vibrant cultural tapestry.
During the session, Sial delighted the audience by answering questions from students. When asked about his singing, he surprised everyone by crooning the classic Kishore Kumar number, “Hume Tumse Pyaar Kitna,” leaving the gathering enchanted. Reflecting on his favorite roles, he said, “The character I played in Titli, Savarkar, and the character in Maharani are among my favourites.”
The closing ceremony also featured veteran theatre and Odia film personality Anant Mohapatra, who shared his insights on cinema and storytelling, enriching the event further. The festival’s success was attributed to the visionary leadership of Dr. Samanta and the meticulous planning of Himanshu Sekhar Khatua, Director General of the KIIT School of Film, Fashion, and Media Studies.
KGFF has grown into a premier platform for showcasing diverse cinematic expressions and fostering cultural exchange. This year, the festival screened an impressive lineup of 45 films, including feature films, short fiction, documentaries, and student projects. The screenings, held across multiple venues on the KIIT campus, drew filmmakers, students, and cinema enthusiasts from across the country.
The closing ceremony was graced by Dr. Achyuta Samanta, Vice-Chancellor Prof. Saranjit Singh, Pro Vice-Chancellor Prof. Debashis Bandopadhyay, and Registrar Prof. J.R. Mohanty. Prof. Bandopadhyay delivered the vote of thanks, marking the end of an eventful and inspiring festival.
Under Dr. Samanta’s stewardship, KGFF continues to champion the spirit of cinema as a medium for storytelling and cultural celebration. The 5th edition reaffirmed its stature as a vibrant hub for filmmakers, artists, and audiences, leaving attendees eagerly anticipating next year’s festival.
