Torch honouring Malayalam cinema icons stays lit, IFFK to kick off today in Kerala capital

Thiruvananthapuram is all set for the 29th International Film Festival of Kerala (IFFK), which starts on Friday. Ahead of the festival, a special torch rally celebrated the rich history of Malayalam cinema, honouring its most iconic figures.

The rally began at Neyyattinkara, where Kerala State Chalachitra Academy chairperson Premkumar handed the torch to Harris Daniel, the son of J.C. Daniel, the maker of the first Malayalam film Vigathakumaran. The march stopped at important places like Merryland Studio and memorials of cinema legends, including Prem Nazir, Neyyattinkara Komalam, and P.K. Rosy, Malayalam cinema’s first heroine.

The rally covered 127km and ended at Manaveeyam Veedhi with a tribute to filmmaker and lyricist P. Bhaskaran on his 100th birth anniversary. The torch will remain lit throughout the festival as a mark of respect for Malayalam cinema’s legacy.

Shabana Azmi to Open the Festival
Friday evening will see actress Shabana Azmi inaugurating the festival at the Nishagandhi Auditorium. Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan will honour her for her remarkable five-decade career.

Hong Kong filmmaker Ann Hui will also receive the Lifetime Achievement Award, which includes Rs 10 lakh and a memento. The evening will feature a traditional dance by Kerala Kalamandalam before the screening of the opening film, I Am Still Here.

The festival, running until December 20, will showcase 177 films from 68 countries in 15 theatres across the city. Highlights include a mix of international and regional films. On the final day, filmmaker Payal Kapadia will receive the Spirit of Cinema Award.

The IFFK promises a memorable experience for film lovers from across the globe.