In the presence of a galaxy of stars from the Indian and world cinema, the Golden Jubilee edition of the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) began on Wednesday in Panaji, Goa. Union Information and Broadcasting Minister Prakash Javadekar inaugurated the mega event in presence of Goa Governor Satya Pal Malik, Goa CM Pramod Sawant, superstars of Indian cinema Amitabh Bachchan and Rajinikanth and Union Minister Babul Supriyo.

Union Minister Javadekar while speaking after the inauguration of the event said that India has been able to assert its soft power in the world through films and urged the Indian film industry to make films for the Divyangs.

Renownedactor Rajinikanth was bestowed with the Icon of the Jubilee Award, while Frenchfilm actor Isabelle Huppert was honoured with the Lifetime Achievement Award onthe occasion.

It may be mentioned here that the IFFI will pay their tributes to famous Assamese actor Biju Phukan. On the occasion of its Golden Jubilee celebration, the IFFI has decided to screen Biju Phukan starrer 'Aparoopa' on November 21.