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Saeed Akhtar Mirza Honored at 30th IFFK

Dec 23, 2025 #Events
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THIRUVANANTHAPURAM – Renowned filmmaker and Chairman of the K.R. Narayanan National Institute of Visual Science and Arts (KRNNIVSA), Saeed Akhtar Mirza, was formally felicitated for his monumental 50-year contribution to Indian cinema during the closing ceremony of the 30th International Film Festival of Kerala (IFFK).

The ceremony, held on Friday, December 19, 2025, at the Nishagandhi Auditorium, was inaugurated by Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan. The event served as a landmark celebration of cinematic excellence and the enduring legacy of one of the most influential figures in India's parallel cinema movement.

Saeed Akhtar Mirza, has been a defining voice in Indian cinema since the 1970s. Known for his socially relevant and politically sharp narratives, his body of work includes classics such as Arvind Desai Ki Ajeeb Dastaan, Albert Pinto Ko Gussa Kyoon Aata Hai, and the National Award-winning Naseem.

The 30th IFFK also featured a special retrospective section dedicated to his career, allowing a new generation of cinephiles to experience the depth and grit of his storytelling.
While presenting the honors, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan highlighted the importance of creative freedom and the role of filmmakers like Mirza in upholding the progressive ethos of cinema. The ceremony was presided over by Minister for Cultural Affairs Saji Cheriyan, with Kerala State Chalachitra Academy Chairman Dr. Resul Pookutty delivering the introductory address.

The event was attended by several dignitaries, including Ministers V. Sivankutty, K. N. Balagopal, and G. R. Anil, alongside prominent film professionals and delegates from around the world.

The felicitation of Saeed Akhtar Mirza at IFFK 2025 stands as a testament to his half-century of dedication to "the cinema of resistance" and his ongoing commitment to shaping the future of film education in India through his leadership at KRNNIVSA.

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