A six-day-long film festival, marking the 100 years of Indian cinema, kick started here with the screening of silent movie 'Throw The Dice' accompanied by Ustad Nishat Khan's live musical orchestra.
The festival and an exhibition on legendary filmmaker Satyajit Ray were inaugurated by I&B minister Manish Tewari.
"The challenge was how do you commemorate 100 years of magical experience. As we look for the next 100 years we at the govt try to ensure the potential of filmmakers is not wasted running around bureaucratic hurdles. Our aim is to make it easier for the industry to shoot for films overseas and here," said Tewari.
The 1929 silent film 'Throw The Dice', by German-born director, Franz Osten, was the highlight of the opening day. Based on an episode from the Indian epic The Mahabharata, the movie was screened in an old fashioned way and was thoroughly enjoyed by the audiences
Osten made 19 films in India between 1926 and 1939, and 'Throw The Dice' formed the final part of a trilogy of Indo-German productions, between him and Indian actor-producer Himanshu Rai.
The event was attended by Ramesh Sippy, Vishal Bhardwaj Rana Daggubati and Nagarjuna.
For 'Sholay' helmer Sippy, being a part of the grand celebration is a great moment.
"Privilege being here as part of celebration of 100 years of cinema. We have seen some great moments on-screen from greatest talents. We have seen the cinema grow over the years and I am proud and happy to be a part of it. I hope the next 100 years are equally beautiful."
"I always used to think what would I do if not making films. I am happy that I don't have to worry about that anymore," said Bhardwaj.
