Italian film festival begins today in Delhi

The Habitat International Film Festival (HIFF) begins today in Delhi, focusing on Italian cinema. This year's festival features films honoring the late actor Marcello Mastroianni, as well as 22 restored classics from Italy. These films include notable works like Satyajit Ray's Apu Trilogy and Vittorio De Sica's Bicycle Thieves. The festival director, Andrea Anastasio, who has lived in India since his teenage years, aims to create a connection between Indian and Italian art. In addition to the film showings, an exhibition of Caravaggio's painting, Mary Magdalene in Ecstasy, will open in April at the Centre and Kiran Nadar Museum of Art. This artwork is currently in Beijing and valued at 50 million Euros. Anastasio emphasizes the power of original art in the digital age. He discusses how Caravaggio’s use of light and human emotion in his works conveys themes of suffering and liberation without relying on religious symbols. He believes that art can bridge cultural gaps and provide a deeper understanding of different traditions. The film festival features a selection of 70 films from 15 countries, showcasing a variety of narratives. Anastasio comments on the influence of Hollywood on global cinema, stressing the importance of diverse artistic voices. He hopes to foster discussions about the role of cinema in revealing complex realities. The festival runs from March 21 to March 30 at the India Habitat Centre on Lodhi Road. Entry is free for all attendees.