Our Bureau
New York, NY
The New York Indian Film Festival 2024 kicked off its festivities with an exclusive event in collaboration with Āve India Design Collective at their SoHo location. The event was a resounding success, setting the tone for what promises to be an exhilarating festival running from May 31st to June 2nd.
Renowned fashion designer Mayyur Girotra, celebrated for his exquisite bridal wear and innovative designs that blend Indian embroidery with Western silhouettes, headlined the evening with a captivating talkback session on Fashion and Film. Moderated by Shriya Bhattacharya of Business Insider, the session delved into the symbiotic relationship between fashion and cinema, and how they together enhance the narrative of Indian storytelling.
Girotra, whose designs have been adorned by numerous celebrities, including actress Aditi Rao Hydari from the hit Netflix series *Heeramandi*, shared his insights on the importance of cultural narratives. “Fashion and film are powerful mediums that convey the depth and richness of Indian culture. Through my designs, I aim to celebrate and preserve our heritage while pushing the boundaries of creativity. Indie filmmaking, in particular, offers a unique platform to showcase authentic stories that resonate on a global stage. The New York Indian Film Festival is crucial in providing such a platform, bringing diverse and meaningful narratives to a wider audience,” said Girotra.
“We at Ave are delighted to support the creativity that the New York Indian Film Festival brings to this city”, added Mira Sagar of Āve India Design Collective.
The kick-off event also provided a sneak peek into the film festival’s lineup, featuring star-studded premieres, thought-provoking documentaries, and captivating shorts. Attendees were treated to an evening of networking, complemented by wine and light bites, as they discussed the upcoming films and the significance of independent cinema in promoting diverse voices.
“We are thrilled to inaugurate the 2024 New York Indian Film Festival with such an inspiring event,” said Suman Gollamudi, Executive Director of the Indo-American Arts Council. “Mayyur Girotra’s participation highlights the crucial interplay between fashion and film in celebrating our culture. The festival is dedicated to presenting the richness of Indian storytelling, and we are excited to share these compelling narratives with our audience.”
Poonam Khubani, IAAC Advisory Board member added, “I warmly invite all of you to join us in celebrating extraordinary films shown at the NIFF. Together, let’s champion the ascent of pioneering cinema and revel in the transformative power of storytelling.”
The New York Indian Film Festival continues to be a premier platform for Indian and diaspora filmmakers to showcase their work. This year’s festival promises to be a spectacular celebration of India’s cinematic and cultural heritage.
For more information visit the New York Indian Film Festival website.
