Bollywood actor Gulshan Grover was outspoken in his criticism of the ongoing International Film
Festival of India (IFFI) here saying it had ignored many Indian film artistes who've made a mark
"internationally".
Addressing a press conference Sunday, the actor who has played a baddie in several films, said: "I
myself know so many people from the industry who are working with the best in Hollywood in various
capacities, including make-up artists. Where is the place for them here?"
Grover, who attended the conference with well known actor Om Puri as a part of "The Hangman"
team, said this was his first visit to IFFI.
He also lamented that IFFI had offered very little in terms of providing business opportunities to the
film community. He felt the festival should provide a platform where film producers can showcase
their films to reputed international distributors and click good deals.
"International distributors of repute are rarely seen at this festival," he added.
"Apart from a few reviews in the media, what does a producer or a director get from IFFI?" he
asked.
Grover's views reflect that of some others that IFFI's Film Bazaar, a platform for filmmakers to cut
business deals with distributors, hasn't made a mark.
Inaugurated by Culture and Urban Development Minister Jaipal Reddy on Friday, the Film Bazaar is
organised by the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) and is yet to give evidence of any major film
distribution deal cut between filmmakers and distributors.
Monday, November 28, 2005 13:56 IST