Kolkata is once again preparing to take center stage in the world of cinema as the city readies itself for the 31st edition of the Kolkata International Film Festival (KIFF). Scheduled to run from November 6 to 13, this year’s festival will bring together 215 films from 39 countries, screened across 21 theatres throughout the city. State Minister Aroop Biswas shared the details on Tuesday, noting that the event will celebrate both global storytelling and Bengal’s own cinematic legacy.
The opening ceremony on November 6 promises to be a nostalgic tribute to Bengali cinema, with Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee in attendance. The festival will open with Saptapadi (1961), the classic romantic drama starring Uttam Kumar and Suchitra Sen.
The choice of this timeless film as the inaugural screening reflects the festival’s deep-rooted respect for Bengal’s golden age of filmmaking and its continued influence on modern cinema.
Over the years, KIFF has evolved into more than just a film festival—it has become a cultural celebration that bridges continents through storytelling. With films representing a wide range of voices and genres, this year’s edition will once again transform Kolkata into a hub of artistic exchange and cinematic discovery.
The names of the special guests for the inauguration are expected to be announced soon, but one thing is certain: as the lights go down and the reels begin to roll, Kolkata will reaffirm its title as the cultural heart of Indian cinema.