Israeli Film Festival in Mumbai Under Fire Prominent Figures Demand Its Cancellation

Since October of the previous year, the conflict between Israel and Hamas has dramatically intensified, precipitating a severe humanitarian crisis in Gaza. The relentless violence has claimed the lives of approximately 40,000 individuals in Gaza City alone. Despite repeated attempts at negotiating a ceasefire, both parties continue to accuse each other of perpetuating the hostilities, leaving peace agreements elusive. The scale of devastation in Gaza has deeply distressed many, exacerbating the sense of urgency and despair surrounding the crisis.

In Mumbai, an Israel Film Festival, initially scheduled for August 21 and 22, has become a focal point of controversy. The festival, organised by the Consulate General of Israel in Mumbai in partnership with the National Film Development Corporation (NFDC), was set to take place from August 20 to 22 at the National Museum of Indian Cinema on Pedder Road. The programme was to feature several Israeli films, including "Seven Blessings," Israel's official entry for the Oscars.

We have confirmed news that the NFDC/NMIC have called off the "Israel Film Festival", to be held in Mumbai on the 21st-22nd of Aug...a signature campaign...got endorsements from over a 1000 people..NFDC/NMIC deciding to hold the festival was shocking

— Subhashini Ali (@SubhashiniAli) August 20, 2024

However, the festival's timing has sparked significant backlash. Prominent figures such as acclaimed actor Naseeruddin Shah and actress Ratna Pathak have publicly opposed the event. Approximately 100 members of the NFDC have signed a petition demanding the festival's cancellation. The petition highlights concerns that hosting the festival amid the ongoing Gaza conflict is both insensitive and inappropriate.

Signatories of the petition include not only Shah and Pathak but also noted filmmaker Anand Patwardhan, freedom fighter Dr. G.G. Parekh, and activist Tushar Gandhi. The petition condemns the festival, stating, "The NFDC's screening is being organised disgracefully at a time when the world is witnessing war crimes, massacre, and genocide occurring in Gaza and throughout Palestine."

Representation to demand that the NFDC cancel the Israel Film Festival to be held in Mumbai!We stand utterly shocked and dismayed at the fact NFDC is organising a Film Festival to showcase Israeli films on the 21st-22nd of August. https://t.co/W7xW7s9JdT

— Nasreen Ebrahim (@EbrahimNasreen) August 19, 2024

The petitioners argue that the management of the NFDC and the National Museum of Indian Cinema should reconsider their stance, given that the Indian government has officially recognised the Palestinian state. They assert that continuing with the festival at this juncture is both unethical and imprudent, reflecting a disregard for the ongoing humanitarian crisis.

- PTC PUNJABI