IFFI 56: Cinema for All – Embracing Accessibility and Inclusivity

The 56th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) proudly champions Sabka Manoranjan (Entertainment for All), pushing the boundaries to create a festival that celebrates diversity, accessibility, and inclusivity. Each initiative this year is designed to make cinema a truly shared experience, accessible to all cinema enthusiasts.

Ceremonial Moments for All: Inclusive Opening and Closing Events with Live Sign Language

This year, the festival’s opening and closing ceremonies will feature live sign language interpretation, ensuring these important events are inclusive for all attendees. With interpretation available in real-time, specially-abled cinephiles and guests can fully engage in these ceremonial highlights, sharing in the excitement, announcements, and celebrations alongside the entire audience. This initiative embodies IFFI’s commitment to inclusivity, ensuring that everyone is welcomed and valued in these landmark moments of the festival.

Kicking Off Inclusivity: The Grand Opening of the Accessible India Section

The Accessible India Accessible Films section opens with an inspiring screening of 12th Fail, a film enhanced with both audio descriptions and Indian Sign Language, on 22nd November at 11:30 AM. In a first, the inaugural will witness a captivating Classical dance performance in Indian Sign Language by acclaimed dancer Methil Devika, as we set the stage for a celebration of inclusivity.

Bringing Stories to Everyone – The Accessible India-Accessible Films Section

This year’s Accessible India Films Section makes cinema a place where everyone belongs. Audiences can experience films enriched with audio descriptions and Indian Sign Language, creating an inclusive viewing space for specially-abled cinephiles. Select Indian and international films will also feature audio descriptions accessible through our technical partner’s app, allowing everyone to engage deeply with these narratives. Live sign language interpretation at various screenings will ensure a universally immersive experience.

Masterclasses Without Barriers

This year, IFFI will feature a masterclass titled "Exhibition of Feature Films in Cinema Theatres: The Question of Accessibility," to be conducted by Senthil Kumar, Co-Founder of Qube Cinema Technologies. This session will explore the evolving landscape of film exhibitions, highlighting the importance of accessibility in cinema theatres and the steps needed to make films accessible to all audiences. Further, in this year’s select masterclasses, IFFI invites all aspiring filmmakers, professionals, and cinephiles to learn and engage without limits, with live sign language interpretation facilitating inclusive conversations and exchanges of ideas. IFFI’s masterclasses bring industry wisdom to everyone, ensuring that knowledge and inspiration flow freely.

Press Conferences for Every Voice and Perspective

IFFI will provide live sign language interpretation for select press conferences, allowing everyone to access updates, discussions, and insights directly from the festival’s heart. This commitment ensures that every perspective and story can be shared, widening the reach and impact of IFFI’s key moments.

Accessibility Everywhere – Digital and On-Site Support

Accessibility at IFFI extends to our online platforms, with certain sections on our website, app, social media and digital content made user-friendly for all audiences.

Inclusive Spaces Designed with Care

Our festival venue and infrastructure reflect IFFI’s commitment to accessibility, offering wheelchair-accessible spaces, restrooms, and parking to ensure comfort for attendees. These thoughtful enhancements make IFFI a truly welcoming place for audiences in public spaces.

On-Site Sign Language Interpreters: Accessible Support Throughout the Festival

On-site sign language interpreters will be available to assist attendees across festival events. These efforts ensure that information and assistance are accessible in every format, breaking down barriers and fostering a truly connected experience for all.

A Team Prepared for Empathy and Understanding

The IFFI teams have undergone sensitivity training, creating an environment where all guests feel understood and valued. This training empowers our staff to offer compassionate support to each attendee, making IFFI an inclusive experience for all.

Uniting with Partners for an Inclusive Future

This year’s accessibility achievements are made possible by key partnerships. With the State Commission for PwD, Goa leading as our Inclusion Partner, Svayam as our Accessibility Partner, and Accessible Content Partners including Yes We Too Can Charitable Trust, India Signing Hands, and Billion Readers, we’re proud to collaborate with leaders in accessibility to make IFFI a festival that truly represents everyone.

Step-by-step instructions for accessing the "MovieBuff Access" Access app are now available.