Punjabi International Film Festival 2013

Official launch at Living Arts Centre Mississauga

By N Balani: The second annual Punjabi International Film Festival was officially announced on April 25th at a star-studded evening at the Living Arts Centre in Mississauga. Only in its second edition, this hugely popular festival has drawn the attention of the community in an unprecedented manner.

It was indeed a splendid and informative evening with not only actors and actresses but also TV personalities, directors, politicians and prominent community members coming out to support great talent and opportunity to view the artistic and modern films from the world of Punjabi cinema.

The highlight of the media launch was popular singer and actor Gippy Grewal who came out on stage amongst a bevy of beautiful dancers. He needed no introduction as the crowds cheered for him and flashbulbs went off in all directions. Grewal is the rising star amongst stars of Punjabi cinema and was there to promote his new comedy Lucky Di Unlucky Story which was screened at the end of the evening extravaganza.

Also present was the popular star of the film Ishq Khuda, Pakistani actress Meera whose appearance fascinated the media present. She is often referred to as the "Madhubala of Pakistan". Ishq Khuda is one of the highly anticipated films to make its world premiere here at the festival.

PIFF president Sunny Gill said that “this year's festival will be filled with movies, cultural entertainment and fun for the whole family." The first PIFF was held last year and had a turnout of over 8,000 in attendance for the screenings. Canada has a population of over half a million Punjabi speaking people and is fast growing to be one of the most important international markets for the Punjabi film industry.

Harry Baweja, well-known Indian film director also attended the launch and said that the festival plays an important role in encouraging younger generations of film makers to make films in their own language and helps give expression to common social issues affecting the communities to the rest of the world. Harry Baweja's film Chaar Sahibzaade is the first Punjabi photo realistic 3D animated feature film. The movie is based on Guru Gobind Singhji's four sons and has caught the attention of the fans as it is a part of Sikh history in animated form attracting the younger generation to learn more about their culture. His movies include many Bollywood films including Love Story 2050 a Hindi sci-fi movie.

Amongst other prominent community members present were Hon. Hazel McCallion, local ward councillors, the CEO of Living Arts Centre and prominent members of the Bank of Montreal.

The event runs from May 16th to 20th and includes not only screening of feature length and short films but also includes an open air screening and community event at Wildwood Park, Malton with ample opportunities for fans to meet the stars. It is accessible to all community members with many free screenings with prior registrations. For screening, timings and locations see www.pifftoronto.com  
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