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Time of India

Filmmakers must showcase lesser-known natural locations in Goa to boost tourism: CM

Panaji: The Goa State Film Festival 2025 was inaugurated on Thursday by chief minister Pramod Sawant , marking a milestone as the Goan film industry celebrates 75 years of cinematic heritage. The festival, running from Aug 14 to 17, features a line-up of 19 films along with workshops and events designed to nurture aspiring filmmakers. In his opening remarks, Sawant emphasised the festival's role as a platform for budding talent in the Konkani film industry. 'This festival is a great opportunity for those who aspire to join the Konkani film fraternity,' he said. Highlighting the vast potential of Goan artistes, Sawant expressed optimism about their ability to break into larger film industries. 'Goans have the talent to go to Bollywood and Hollywood. We only need to give them finishing lessons,' he said. 'Plans are afoot at honing skills, with drama schools opening at Bal Bhavan and Kala Academy, and acting lessons being introduced in schools across Goa,' he added. He also urged filmmakers to explore and showcase Goa's lesser-known natural locations in Konkani films. 'Directors must shoot in such locations that people have never seen before, featuring natural beauty in Konkani films. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Is it better to shower in the morning or at night? Here's what a microbiologist says CNA Read More Undo These places can then become famous tourist destinations,' Sawant added. Delilah Lobo, vice-chairperson of the Entertainment Society of Goa, voiced the organisation's ambition to position Goa as a capital of art and culture through hosting premier festivals. 'From 1950 till date, many Goan artistes and filmmakers have made us proud. We want to attract quality tourists by making Goa a hub for cultural events,' she said. The festival's chief guest, South Indian comedian Mohammad Ali, who boasts a prolific career spanning 47 years and 1,265 films across Telugu, Tamil, Malayalam, Kannada, Hindi, and Nepali cinema, expressed enthusiasm about engaging with Konkani cinema. 'I would love to do a film in Konkani. Only Indian actors can do films in multiple languages and even in Hollywood,' he said. Stay updated with the latest local news from your city on Times of India (TOI). Check upcoming bank holidays , public holidays , and current gold rates and silver prices in your area. Get the latest lifestyle updates on Times of India, along with Happy Independence Day wishes , messages , and quotes !