Panaji, Nov 29 (PTI) Opposition leader and former Goa Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar on Tuesday criticised the ongoing International Film Festival of India (IFFI) saying it lacked enthusiasm and publicity unlike last year.
Parrikar, who was the Chief Minister when IFFI was held last year, said the aim, behind having a permanent venue for the film festival, was to put Goa on the entertainment map.
"This year it is a repeat performance of IFFI and it should have been conducted with more enthusiasm," he said admitting that last year there were initial hiccups which were corrected immediately.
About shifting the festival dates to off-peak season, Parrikar said such a shift is not possible as it has to be adjusted with the international festival calender.
"If you shift it during off-peak season you will lose the charm as some of the movies would be already released before the festival," he said.
Reacting to the Malayalam film makers contention that IFFI in Goa is like a carnival festival, Parrikar said the hype is required to involve local population.
"If you decorate secretariat it does not mean that you are celebrating Diwali," he said adding "serious business of the films is conducted inside the venue and film bazaar."
{{/usCountry}}"If you decorate secretariat it does not mean that you are celebrating Diwali," he said adding "serious business of the films is conducted inside the venue and film bazaar."
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