Second Indian Film Festival begins at the National Cinematheque in Caracas

The event was attended by the Minister of Popular Power for Culture, Raúl Cazal; the ambassador of the Republic of India, Shri P K Ashok Babu; members of the diplomatic corps accredited in the country and authorities of the Venezuelan cultural sector.

Minister Cazal highlighted the quality of Indian cinematography, whose production has consolidated its own identity. “Bollywood for us is a great example of this way of expressing a people and their identity. They have achieved a code, a way of making films in competition with the global hegemony that has existed in cinema for a good number of years,” he said. He also instructed that the festival's programming be extended to all the theatres of the National Cinematheque in the country.

The head of Culture reported that, within the framework of this day, authorities from Venezuela and India held a bilateral meeting to make progress in terms of cultural cooperation. “We thank the people of India who are here in Venezuela, in our room at the National Cinematheque,” he added.

In this regard, the Indian ambassador stressed that these types of events “promote intercultural understanding and inspire new ideas”. In addition, he expressed his interest in filming Indian films in emblematic places in the national territory.

The diplomat highlighted the evolution of film productions in his country and the international recognition achieved, thanks to technological innovation and the incorporation of elements of Indian culture, mythology, dance and music. “With its unique style, Indian cinema has played a fundamental role in shaping and reflecting our culture: social issues, family values and historical events... Indian films have left an indelible mark on cinema,” he said.

The holding of the 2nd Indian Film Festival 2026 reaffirms the role of the seventh art as a bridge for the union between nations. Through culture, Venezuela and India strengthen their bilateral relations and consolidate a shared agenda with multiple possibilities for future cooperation.