Panaji, Goa, November 19, 2024 — The 55th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) is breaking barriers in cinema accessibility with its inclusive theme, “Sabka Manoranjan” (Entertainment for All). This year, IFFI has introduced a series of initiatives to ensure a welcoming and enriching experience for cinephiles of all abilities.
For the first time, the opening and closing ceremonies will feature live sign language interpretation, enabling audiences with hearing impairments to fully engage in the festivities. A dedicated “Accessible India Films” section will screen movies with audio descriptions and sign language interpretation. The section launches on November 22 with the screening of *12th Fail*, accompanied by a sign language dance performance by acclaimed artist Methil Devika.
Digital accessibility has also been enhanced through user-friendly platforms, while festival venues are equipped with wheelchair-accessible spaces, restrooms, and on-site sign language interpreters. The innovative Moviebuff Access app, developed by Qube Cinemas, allows visually impaired attendees to stream audio descriptions directly to their devices.
In addition to screenings, a special masterclass on film accessibility will be held, alongside press conferences with live sign language interpretation. Notable screenings include Swatantrya Veer Savarkar, Bartali’s Bicycle, and Sam Bahadur.
This monumental effort has been made possible through partnerships with organizations like India Signing Hands, Yes, We Too Can Charitable Trust, and Svayam. The IFFI team has also undergone sensitivity training to create a supportive and inclusive environment.
With these initiatives, IFFI 2024 sets a global benchmark for accessibility in cinema, reaffirming its commitment to creating shared cultural experiences under its vision of “Sabka Manoranjan.”
