Sapna Bhavnani cancels Kolkata leg of Wench Film Festival after I&B ministry pulls SRFTI as venue

Sapna Bhavnani, the renowned hairstylist and filmmaker, has announced the cancellation of the Kolkata leg of the Wench Film Festival. This decision follows the unexpected withdrawal of the Satyajit Ray Film & Television Institute (SRFTI) as the event's venue, a move initiated by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (I&B). The festival, known for celebrating women's voices in cinema, was set to showcase a diverse array of films and discussions. The I&B Ministry's decision to pull SRFTI as the venue has sparked conversations within the film community about the challenges faced by independent festivals. While no official reason has been provided for the venue's withdrawal, the decision has undoubtedly disrupted Bhavnani's plans, leaving the Kolkata audience disappointed. The festival's organizers are now tasked with addressing logistical concerns and exploring potential alternatives for future editions. Despite this setback, Bhavnani remains committed to her vision of amplifying women's narratives through film. She expressed her determination to continue with the festival in other cities, ensuring that the spirit of the Wench Film Festival endures. This incident underscores the ongoing difficulties faced by cultural events in navigating bureaucratic landscapes, highlighting the resilience required to sustain artistic expression.

— Authored by Next24 Live