“I definitely agree (that) the ratio of delegate registration, which has gone up huge this year, to seats in theatres is very unhealthy. While the number of delegates has crossed 13,700?mark, the seating capacity remains just 2,500 across all the auditoriums,” said festival director Shankar Mohan at the mid-fest press conference.
The IFFI was opened on November 20 by megastar Amitabh Bachchan, and is scheduled to conclude on November 30 with a gala prize distribution ceremony.
Mohan said that considering the ever-increasing number of delegates, the seating capacity should be at least 5,000 — double than that of existing figure.
“Goa government is fully aware of it. They are working towards constructing a big convention centre. Since Goa is declared as permanent venue for IFFI, they (government) will now invest in it,” he said, adding that investing crores of rupees is not easy for any government.
“Now they have stability that the festival is going to stay here, they will not be questioned for spending crores of rupees. I am very positive, very soon we will have a huge festival complex,” Mohan said.
He added that the number of delegates registered this year has gone up by at least 1,000-1,500.
Responding to a question, Mohan said attempt is made to ensure that “good cinema” is shown at the festival which is facing a stiff competition from other festivals across the country, which are vying for premiering good movies.
“That is why, films are locked (booked) well in advance.
If I don’t lock the film quickly than I might lose the film.
(In) today’s world there is a fierce competition,” he stated.
PTI RPS