Dehradun’s 11th International Film Festival has opened with a 3-day programme featuring around 55 films and a wide range of industry events. The festival is being held from 2 October to 4 October, with screenings and public sessions planned across the city.

The programme includes international films, short films, documentaries and music albums. Organisers say the event is intended to bring audiences, actors, directors and producers together through screenings and direct interaction.

Opening event and programme

The inaugural ceremony took place at 6:30 AM PM on 2 October at Silver City Multiplex on Rajpur Road. A Uttarakhand Talent Hunt is also part of the festival’s programme.

On 3 October, Tula’s University is hosting a talk show with artists from 10:30 AM AM, along with other festival activities. The schedule continues on 4 October with further events, including talks, seminars and an awards function.

Festival organiser Rajesh Sharma said around 55 films are being screened during the 3-day event. He added that entry to the festival is completely free.

Artists discuss opportunities for new talent

Several artists have arrived from Mumbai and other parts of the film and cultural sector. Those named in the programme include Deepak Parashar, Mukesh Rishi, Shweta Tripathi, Rajesh Tailang, Firoz Khan, Hemant Pandey, Gauri Pradhan Tejwani, Hiten Tejwani, Rajan Modi, Pritam Bhartwan, Suman Gaur, Meena Rana, Balraj Negi, S.K. Badoni, Mohit Ghildiyal, Amit V Kapoor and Rajiv S Ruia.

Actor Rajesh Tailang said film festivals help create stronger links between audiences and artists. He said cinema, theatre and cultural events should continue because they provide space for creative exchange.

Tailang also pointed to the growing number of people making films and videos through mobile phones and reels. He said festivals can help these emerging creators learn from artists, producers and directors through screenings and conversations.

According to him, interaction with established professionals can support young people who are experimenting with mobile technology and new ways of producing visual content.

Uttarakhand highlighted as a filming location

Artists attending the festival described Uttarakhand as a beautiful and safe place for film production. They said the state offers natural locations and a favourable environment for shooting.

The participants also praised efforts by the Uttarakhand government to encourage film production. They said the state could develop into a major destination for filmmakers in the coming years.

For Dehradun audiences, the festival offers free access to films across multiple categories, alongside opportunities to meet and hear from people working in cinema and related creative fields.

Conclusion

The festival’s verified programme combines around 55 screenings with talks, seminars, a talent hunt and an awards function before the event concludes on 4 October.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. When is Dehradun’s 11th International Film Festival being held?

The festival is taking place from 2 October to 4 October.

Q. Where was the opening ceremony held?

The opening ceremony was held at Silver City Multiplex on Rajpur Road at 6:30 AM PM on 2 October.

Q. How many films are being screened?

Around 55 films are being screened during the 3-day festival.

Q. What types of films are included?

The programme includes international films, short films, documentaries and music albums.

Q. Is entry to the festival free?

Yes. Organiser Rajesh Sharma said entry is completely free.

Q. What is scheduled at Tula’s University?

A talk show with artists and other activities are scheduled at Tula’s University from 10:30 AM AM on 3 October.

Q. Who is participating in the festival?

The participants include actors, musicians and other artists, including Deepak Parashar, Mukesh Rishi, Shweta Tripathi and Rajesh Tailang.

Q. What did artists say about Uttarakhand?

They described Uttarakhand as a beautiful and safe filming location with natural settings and a supportive environment.