The 56th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) concluded on a glittering note on Friday, with legendary actor Rajinikanth receiving the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award for completing 50 years in cinema.
The Indian film icon, fondly called Thalaivar (Leader), was honored by the Government of India during a special ceremony in Goa. His felicitation became the highlight of the festival’s closing event, which celebrated outstanding filmmaking and creative excellence from across the globe.
A 50-Year Journey
Rajinikanth, now 74, walked on stage to thunderous applause and a standing ovation. In an emotional and humble acceptance speech, he reflected on a cinema career that has made him a cultural phenomenon for generations of fans.
Sharing how deeply he loves the craft of acting, he remarked that his five decades in films felt much shorter because of his passion for the art.
“50 years of acting in cinema felt like 10 or 15 years. Time just flew,” he said.
He expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Indian government and shared a wish that showed his unwavering dedication to cinema.
“If there are 100 more janams (lives), I would like to be born as an actor, and as Rajinikanth.”
The superstar dedicated the award to the “Tamil people, the gods who keep me alive,” acknowledging their steadfast support and affection, which have shaped his remarkable journey.
A Star-Studded Ceremony
The Lifetime Achievement Award was presented by Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant, who greeted Rajinikanth with a shawl and a commemorative memento. The ceremony witnessed the presence of several notable film personalities, including Bollywood actor Ranveer Singh, along with filmmakers and stars from various Indian film industries.
Rajinikanth attended the event with his family, adding a personal and memorable touch to the landmark moment.
During the festival, his recent film Lal Salaam, directed by his daughter Aishwarya Rajinikanth, was also screened for attendees.
Other Major Winners at IFFI 2025
Even as Rajinikanth’s honor added grandeur to the finale, the festival also celebrated cinematic brilliance from around the world through its competitive awards.
The Golden Peacock Award for Best Feature Film was won by the Vietnamese film Skin of Youth. Directed by Ash Mayfair, the film tells a deeply moving tale about a transgender sex worker and a cage fighter in 1990s Saigon. The filmmakers shared the Golden Peacock Trophy along with a cash prize of ₹40 lakh.
Other key awards included:
- Best Director: Santosh Davakhar for the Marathi thriller Gondhal
- ICFT-UNESCO Gandhi Medal: Awarded to the Norwegian film Safe House for advocating peace and intercultural understanding
The 56th IFFI brought together filmmakers, artists and creators from around the world, celebrating diverse storytelling and cinematic excellence. The festival concluded with a fitting tribute to one of India’s most beloved and respected superstars — Rajinikanth.
