23rd Kolkata International Film Festival inaugurated
Kolkata, Nov 10 (IBNS): With a spectacular opening ceremony that saw the presence of Bollywood celebrities, including Shah Rukh Khan and Amitabh Bachchan, the 23rd Kolkata International Film Festival was inaugurated here on Friday.
Several Indian cine stars, which included Kamal Haasan, Mahesh Bhatt and Kajol, were present at the event.
The focus country of this year film festival is UK.
Speaking on the event, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee posted on Facebook: "The International Kolkata Film Festival is a true connection between stars of Hollywood, Bollywood, Tollywood, Telewood. I extend my best wishes to them for their contribution to world cinema."
She said: "Till 17 November, 2017, 143 feature films, 87 short films, 51 documentaries from 53 countries will be screened across 12 venues in the state. Films will also be screened in select localities (paras) in and around the city to spread the spirit of the festival beyond the conventional venues."
She said :"For the first time, films in various traditional languages like Garo, Khasi, Chakma, Boro, Maithili etc will also be screened in the festival.I extend my heartiest greetings to everyone and invite all my brothers and sisters to participate and enjoy this true celebration of films and more."
Shah Rukh Khan said it was a' fun' experience for him to attend the event.
He tweeted: "Too much fun and love at KIFF 2017. Love my Kolkata & as always the warmth of @MamataOfficial…U r the sweetest."
Images: Mamata Banerjee Facebook page
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