Assam Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal inaugurated the 2nd Guwahati International Film Festival (GIFF) on Thursday stating that the festival is aimed to integrate the world as a family.

The seven-day long film extravaganza began on Thursday in Guwahati with a collection of 108 acclaimed films from over 50 countries to be screened in the next one week.

Speaking on the occasion, the CM said, "The aim of cinema is to integrate the society, humanity and create brotherhood. It's like a global village and small family. We need to stay together."

Sonowal said that the GIFF was a great beginning to integrate the world and the society. "The theme of the festival Vasudeva Kutumbakam teaches us to live together, work together and grow together. Film is the medium which plays a crucial role in fulfilling this aim", he said.

The ceremony was also attended by Lithuanian Ambassador Julius Pranevicius, Serbian Ambassador Vladimir Maric and Latvian Ambassador designated Artis Bertulis.

"Cinema is a powerful tool. In the world of cinema, we now have another spot in India," Pranevicius said.

The film festival is organised by Jyoti Chitrabon in association with Dr. Bhupen Hazarika Regional Government Film and Television Institute.