Shriya Pilgaonkar, known for her Marathi, Bollywood and international cinema performances, brings a wealth of experience to the jury panel. She gained prominence with her debut in the critically acclaimed film Fan (2016) and has since established herself as a versatile talent in projects such as Mirzapur, Gurinder Chadha’s series Beecham House (2019), and Claude Lelouch’s French film Un plus une (2015).
In response to her role, Pilgaonkar expressed her excitement, stating, “I have always wanted to establish myself as a global actor, engaging in diverse roles and participating in film festivals aligns perfectly with that ambition. The Kaadan (2021) actress added, “ I am really excited to watch a lot of films deeply rooted in South Asian culture. It’s always inspiring to witness new and emerging storytellers.”
On the recent success of Payal Kapadia’s All We Imagine As Light, which won the Grand Prix at the 77th Cannes International Film Festival this year, Pilgaonkar shed light on how film festivals play a crucial role for independent filmmakers. “It has been an exceptional year for Indian cinema internationally, but I hope we can provide better financial support through scholarships, grants, and funding. There is so much untapped talent waiting for opportunities,”
The Indian Film Festival of Los Angeles (IFFLA), a vital platform for Indian filmmakers since its inception, continues to draw attention for its carefully curated selection of films. The festival not only highlights the best of Indian cinema but also provides a space for filmmakers to connect with audiences and industry professionals worldwide. The festival dates for this year are lined up from Thursday, 27th June 2024 to 30th June 2024.
As the IFFLA 2024 approaches, the film community eagerly awaits the contributions of Shriya Pilgaonkar and her fellow jury members. Their evaluations and selections will undoubtedly influence the trajectory of Indian cinema on the international stage, reinforcing the festival’s role as a key player in promoting cultural exchange and cinematic excellence.