Karnataka CM announces Rs 9 crore budget for 16th BIFF starting from March 1 to 8

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has announced that the 16th Bengaluru International Film Festival (BIFF), scheduled for March 1-8, will have a budget of Rs 9 crore, up from Rs 7 crore last year. Addressing the press at his official residence, Krishna, after a meeting with the organising committee, Siddaramaiah unveiled this year’s theme: Garden of Peace for All.

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The festival will feature over 200 films from 60 countries, screened across 13 venues, including 11 screens at Orion Mall, one at Suchitra Film Society, and another at Dr Ambareesh Auditorium in Chamarajpet. Additionally, more than 400 Kannada and multilingual films will be showcased, offering audiences a chance to experience diverse global cultures.

Originally launched in 2006, the festival has grown significantly over 16 editions. This year’s event will be inaugurated by the Chief Minister on March 1 and conclude on March 8, with the Governor attending the closing ceremony. The schedule was aligned with pre-budget discussions.

Siddaramaiah highlighted initiatives to support Kannada cinema, including a selection committee for financial assistance to films and the development of a Film City on 110 acres in Mysuru under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model.

When asked if he would attend screenings, the CM said he would watch films with artistic merit if time permits. On nominations for Legislative Council members, he stated that candidates from cinema, literature, and social work would be considered by party leadership.