Goa CM Pramod Sawant Inaugurates 14th Goa Marathi Film Festival, Honours Veteran Actor Mohan Agashe

Panaji, Aug 2025 : Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant inaugurated the 14th edition of the Goa Marathi Film Festival in Panaji on Saturday, accompanied by a host of prominent film personalities, including actors Mahesh Manjrekar and Mrinal Kulkarni. The opening ceremony celebrated the vibrancy and creative spirit of Marathi cinema, with the Chief Minister sharing moments from the event on his official social media handles.

Congratulating festival organiser Sanjay Shetty, Sawant described the event as “a vibrant celebration of Marathi cinema” and extended a warm welcome to filmmakers, actors, directors, and cinephiles attending from across the country. “Your presence enriches our cultural heritage and inspires our creative community,” he said, emphasising Goa’s ongoing efforts to develop its film industry into a hub for talent, cultural exchange, and excellence in filmmaking.

Highlighting the broader impact of such events, Sawant remarked, “These festivals not only bring the joy of excellent films but also strengthen the ecosystem for cinema. Warm wishes for the festival, and may we continue celebrating the magic of cinema for many years to come.”

A key highlight of the opening day was the presentation of the Lifetime Achievement Award 2025 to veteran actor Dr. Mohan Agashe. Recognising his decades-long contribution to theatre and cinema, the festival’s official social media post read: “From the stage to the silver screen, Dr. Agashe’s powerful performances and unwavering commitment to the art have left an indelible mark on the world of storytelling.”

Organised by the Vinson Group, the two-day festival promises a star-studded showcase of over 20 films, including eight world premieres. In addition to screenings, the programme features an AI workshop on filmmaking, reflecting the industry’s growing interest in technology-driven storytelling. Screenings and events are being held at INOX Panaji and Maquinez Palace, providing audiences with an immersive cultural experience.

The Goa Marathi Film Festival, running from August 9 to 10, continues to be a key platform for celebrating regional cinema while fostering connections between artists, audiences, and industry leaders.