Three Iranian films will feature at the 56th International Film Festival of India, highlighting diverse stories and talented filmmakers. Moreover, the presence of Iranian films in the festival promises audiences a rich glimpse into contemporary Iranian cinema. The festival runs in India from November 20 to 28, attracting filmmakers and cinephiles from across the globe.
Hesam Farahmand’s “My Daughter’s Hair,” also known as “Raha,” will screen in the Best Debut Feature Film of a Director section. The drama explores a family struggling in an unstable economy. Tohid, his wife, and children live ordinary lives until a small incident changes everything. To bring happiness, Tohid sells his daughter’s hair to buy a second-hand laptop. However, he soon faces a conflict with a wealthy family over the laptop’s ownership. As a result, Tohid must confront harsh realities and fight for what matters most.
Ebrahim Amini’s “K-Poper” competes for the ICFT UNESCO Gandhi Medal. The film follows a teenage Iranian girl who idolizes a popular K-pop singer. She dreams of traveling to Seoul to see him perform and participate in a competition. Despite her acceptance into the contest, her mother strongly opposes her journey. Consequently, the story explores youthful ambition, familial challenges, and the pursuit of dreams.
Saeed Roustayi’s “Woman and Child” will appear in the non-competitive section, From the Festivals. The movie tells the story of Mahnaz, a 40-year-old widowed nurse, who struggles with her rebellious son Aliyar. His suspension from school heightens family tensions. During her engagement ceremony with her new boyfriend Hamid, a tragic accident occurs. As a result, Mahnaz must navigate betrayal and loss while seeking justice.
The International Film Festival of India remains a premier cinematic event in South Asia. In addition, it is the only festival in the region accredited by the International Federation of Film Producers’ Associations in the Competitive Feature Films category. Established in 1952, IFFI showcases outstanding films worldwide. Furthermore, the festival provides a platform for ambitious filmmakers, cineastes, and industry professionals to connect and celebrate global cinema.
IFFI’s International Cinema section continues to feature culturally rich and aesthetically compelling films. By curating internationally acclaimed movies, the festival promotes the art of filmmaking. Additionally, Iranian films will add a unique voice to this year’s festival, offering audiences stories filled with emotion, struggle, and creativity.