Cinema Is The Ultimate Glue for Social Cohesion, Says Hemant Nimbalkar At BIFFES 2026

The Bengaluru International Film Festival BIFFES highlights world cinema, Indian classics and social themes, emphasising dialogue, cultural exchange and women's representation across India, including Uttar Pradesh. It reinforces cinema as a tool for social change through masterclasses, Q&A sessions and collaborations between filmmakers and audiences.

The 17th Bengaluru International Film Festival (BIFFES) has once again solidified its position as a premier global platform for cinematic excellence and social discourse. Hemant Nimbalkar, Commissioner of the Department of Information and Public Relations, inaugurated the sessions by highlighting cinema's enduring role as a primary medium for social unity and communication. He emphasized that BIFFES acts as a vital bridge, connecting art with public participation and strengthening the intricate relationship between society, media, and filmmakers.

A Focus on Realistic Narratives

The 2026 edition is defined by its thought-provoking central theme: "Woman As She Is" (Sthree Endare Ashthe Saake..?). This theme underscores a commitment to authentic storytelling, moving away from stereotypes to capture the lived experiences of women. To complement the screenings, the festival has integrated masterclasses and Q&A sessions, creating a rare "beyond-the-screen" environment where veteran directors and film students can exchange ideas, ensuring that Karnataka's filmmaking legacy continues to evolve.

This year's lineup is particularly diverse, featuring:

Global Contemporary Cinema: Highly acclaimed modern works from around the world.

Polish Country Focus: A deep dive into the rich cinematic traditions of Poland.

Restored Kannada Classics: A tribute to regional heritage, allowing younger generations to experience the roots of local cinema.

The Chief Minister's Call for Social Responsibility

In a powerful address, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah urged the film fraternity to view cinema as more than just a source of entertainment. He described it as a corrective tool for society's flaws. Highlighting the systemic inequalities faced by women, farmers, and the Dalit community, the CM stated that the true purpose of the medium is fulfilled only when it empowers the marginalized.

Drawing inspiration from the legendary Dr. Rajkumar, the Chief Minister noted that cinema should foster empathy and global understanding. "We are humans first and last," he remarked, suggesting that film festivals should be a platform to understand international cultures and build a society rooted in equality and love.

Cinematic Highlights: A Global Mosaic

The screenings on January 31st at Lulu Mall showcased the festival's vast narrative reach. The day began with Andrzej Wajda's Oscar-nominated The Maids of Wilko (Polish), an emotional exploration of lost youth. This was followed by the French New Wave masterpiece Cleo from 5 to 7 by Agnès Varda, which captures two hours of existential anxiety in real-time.

Indian regional cinema held a strong presence with Girish Kasaravalli's Thaayi Saheba, which examines land reforms through a woman's struggle, and Shankar Nag's Accident, a suspense drama on political corruption that remains eerily relevant today. For action enthusiasts, an open-air screening of Girish Karnad's Ondanondu Kaladalli brought a samurai-inspired Kannada epic to the masses. From Ketan Mehta's satirical Bhavni Bhavai to Zhang Lu's Mother Tongue, the day's programming successfully reflected the multicultural fabric of our global society.

By blending regional pride with international sophistication, BIFFES 2026 continues to reinforce the resolve to build a more harmonious world through the magic of the silver screen.

Details of the featured films are given below for readers tracking Bengaluru International Film Festival BIFFES programmes.

By blending international cinema, Kannada heritage and sharp social discussions, the Bengaluru International Film Festival BIFFES strengthens film culture for audiences across India, including Uttar Pradesh. Leaders and organisers trust that its conversations, screenings and networks will continue to support unity, equality and cultural awareness through cinema.