First Sikkim international film festival to be held from March 19–22 in Gangtok

The first-ever Sikkim International Film Festival (SIFF) will be held in Gangtok from March 19 to 22, marking a significant step in the Himalayan state’s efforts to strengthen its presence in the global film landscape.

The festival is being organised by the Department of Information and Public Relations, Government of Sikkim, in collaboration with the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting and the National Film Development Corporation of India (NFDC).

Chairman of Sikkim’s Music, Drama, Dance and Film Board Tashi Tshering Bhutia said the festival aims to celebrate cinema while positioning Sikkim as an emerging destination for filmmaking and cultural exchange.

Bhutia described the launch of the festival as an important milestone in the state’s efforts to nurture film culture and provide opportunities for creative talent. “Cinema is a powerful medium that connects cultures, ideas and people. Through SIFF, we aim to showcase the rich cultural heritage, natural beauty and creative potential of Sikkim to the global film community,” he said.

He added that Sikkim has gradually evolved into a hub for the creative economy since 2019 under the guidance and patronage of Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang .

IPR Chairman Ashit Rai said the festival comes at a time when filmmakers from Sikkim are increasingly gaining recognition in India and abroad. According to him, the initiative will encourage meaningful exchanges and collaborations while helping establish the state as a favourable filming destination.

Information and Public Relations Secretary Annapurna Alley , who is also the festival director, said the four-day event will feature a curated selection of national and international films along with special screenings, panel discussions, masterclasses and interactive sessions with prominent personalities from the film fraternity.

A key highlight of the festival will be a tribute to legendary filmmaker Satyajit Ray, featuring a screening of his 1971 documentary Sikkim , regarded as an important cinematic record of the state’s history and culture. Officials said the festival will also host a short film competition, with entries invited from Sikkim, North Bengal and neighbouring countries Nepal and Bhutan, offering a platform for emerging regional filmmakers.

The European Union is expected to participate as a programme partner, with filmmakers and representatives from several member nations likely to attend and about ten European films scheduled for screening.