UNICEF and National Film Development Corporation partner at 56th IFFI to spotlight authentic stories and cinema about childhood and adolescence

Panaji — At the 56th edition of the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) 2025, UNICEF and the National Film Development Corporation (NFDC) partnered for the fourth year to spotlight films of childhood from around the world to provoke reflection on the experiences that shape children's lives as well as responsible storytelling. Participating in the festival were Cynthia McCaffrey, Representative and Zafrin Chowdhury, Chief of Communications, Advocacy and Partnership, from UNICEF India.

A curated package of five national and international films, selected by NFDC and UNICEF, is being screened at the festival, highlighting themes such as resilience, identity, inclusion, and hope for children and young people. The films are being screened in cinemas as part of the week-long festival in Goa.

The films featured this year include:

• Odyssey of Joy | Zgjim Terziqi | Kosovo | Albanian, English, French, Romany | 99 mins
• Happy Birthday | Sarah Goher | Egypt | Arabic | 90 mins
• The Beetle Project | Jin Kwang-kyo | Republic of Korea | Korean | 100 mins
• Kadal Kanni | Dinesh Selvaraj | Tamil | 126 mins
• Putul | Radheshyam Pipalwa | Hindi | 99 mins

UNICEF India Representative Cynthia McCaffrey walked the red carpet alongside two French actors from the film, Odyssey of Joy, followed by its screening today. Speaking to the media, McCaffrey emphasized the importance of films that reflect children's innermost wishes, their courage, resilience, and abilities. 

"Cinema has the power to open hearts and minds. When stories of children and young people are portrayed with authenticity and respect, films can foster empathy, challenge stereotypes and inspire meaningful action for every child. UNICEF's partnership with NFDC at IFFI provides an important platform that brings together films and the film industry as allies in protecting and promoting child rights through creative, powerful narratives that that inspire positive change for every child."

Speaking on the partnership, Prithul Kumar, Joint Secretary, Broadcasting II, Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, said, "UNICEF and IFFI represent a shared belief that art can transform societies. By spotlighting stories focused on young lives, we encourage a culture of compassion and responsibility."

UNICEF and NFDC co-hosted a high-level panel discussion titled 'The Future is Watching: Youth Audiences, Media Literacy & Ethical Storytelling' as part of the Film Bazaar Knowledge Series in IFFI. Moderated by noted film personality Smriti Kiran, the discussion brought together key voices including, including Mr Prithul Kumar, Joint Secretary, Broadcasting II, Ministry of Information & Broadcasting, Ms Cynthia McCaffrey, Representative, UNICEF India, Ms Ashwiny Iyer, acclaimed writer-producer, Ms Mitu Bhomick, noted film producer and Yashasvi Juyal, budding young film director.

The conversation explored how rapidly shifting media ecosystems—from streaming platforms to social media to AI-driven content—shape young people's imagination and worldview. The panel underscored the responsibility to build narratives that empower, educate, and protect children.

The UNICEF–NFDC partnership at IFFI 2025 reaffirms cinema's vital role in shaping cultural narratives and harnessing the power of the film industry to influence public opinion, spark dialogue, and drive social change that advances child rights.