Goa’s first environmental film festival is slated to take place from Saturday June 3 to Monday June 5. The festival is set to commence with the highly acclaimed documentary ‘The Elephant Whisperers,’ which garnered international recognition by clinching an Oscar.
This momentous event, heralded by the state’s Environment Minister Nilesh Cabral, was officially announced during a press conference where the festival’s poster was unveiled. Minister Cabral further expressed his intention to establish this as an annual affair, underscoring the enduring commitment to environmental awareness and cinematic excellence.
The ‘1st Goa Environmental Film Festival’ (GEFF) also embarks on a cinematic journey that sheds light on the pressing environmental issues of our time in line with G20 theme of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” – One Earth, One Family, One Future.
Embracing a global perspective, the festival will showcase a remarkable selection of over 50 films hailing from countries across the world. The three-day event will be open to the public, who are invited to register free of charge via the following link: https://goaeff.in/.
The esteemed Maquinez Palace in Panaji will serve as the venue for these awe-inspiring screenings, offering an ideal setting to immerse oneself in the artistry and messages conveyed by these environmentally themed films.
Among the participating countries, which have contributed their unique cinematic creations, are Bulgaria, Canada, Croatia, Finland, Ireland, Oman, Portugal, Russia, and Spain. The festival will draw to a grand finale with the screening of the esteemed Spanish film ‘Alcarass,’ a testament to the international appeal and diversity of the selected works.
Minister Cabral, in his impassioned plea to both students and the general public, emphasized the profound significance of engaging with these films and actively participating in the festival. By immersing oneself in the captivating narratives and visuals presented onscreen, audiences can gain valuable insights and foster a deeper understanding of environmental protection and sustainability.
Additionally, the festival proudly showcases the contributions of Goan filmmakers, underscoring the local talent and creativity in tackling environmental subjects. This inclusion serves as a celebration of the region’s cinematic heritage and its dedication to environmental advocacy.
As Goa’s first environmental film festival prepares to unfold its cinematic wonders, audiences are encouraged to embrace this extraordinary opportunity to expand their knowledge, elevate their consciousness, and actively contribute to the discourse surrounding environmental preservation.
By merging the power of storytelling with the urgency of environmental concerns, this festival promises to inspire, educate, and empower individuals to make a tangible difference in safeguarding our planet for future generations.