THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: If things pan out, fans of the International Film Festival of Kerala (IFFK) will be able to watch the fest at the keenly-awaited IFFK complex two years from now.
The proposed complex will turn a reality in two years’ time, Finance Minister T M Thomas Isaac announced at the inaugural of the 21st IFFK edition on Friday. Although the government’s plan for a permanent venue was announced earlier, this is the first time that a concrete deadline is being announced.
Isaac said that the government proposes to spend Rs 2,500 crore on culture in the next five years. Projects include the development of Chitranjali Studio in Thiruvananthapuram as a ‘Film City’ and establishment of cultural centres in all the districts. Chalachitra Academy chairman Kamal, speaking on the occasion, expressed the hope that the complex, a long-standing dream of film buffs, would materialise soon.
‘Love affair with Kerala’
Chief guest at the IFFK inaugural function actor-director Amol Palekar waxed lyrical on Friday about his ‘love affair’ with Kerala. Palekar said his emotional bond with Kerala started when Balu Mehendra wanted him to act in his 1982 movie ‘Olangal.’ ‘’It is a cherished experience,’’ Palekar said. The ‘’love affair’ grew when his 1997 film ‘Daayra’ was denied an entry at the International Film Festival of India. But a parallel screening was held in Thiruvananthapuram to a packed audience.
The French connection
Shashi Tharoor MP surprised IFFK audiences at the inaugural function on Friday by effortlessly switching to French for the benefit of the foreign delegates. It drew several rounds of applause from the packed Nishagandhi auditorium.
IFFK security
A strong police presence has been ensured at the IFFK venues this time. Led by City Police Commissioner Sparjan Kumar, three assistant commissioners are coordinating the security arrangements. Various police units, including the shadow wing, will be on duty. Nine control room vehicles and two ‘Pink Patrols’ also have been deployed.