The upcoming 56th International Film Festival of India (IFFI 2025) is set to honor India's rich film heritage by showcasing 18 meticulously restored classics as part of the National Film Heritage Mission (NFHM). This initiative is curated by the National Film Development Corporation (NFDC) and the National Film Archive of India (NFAI) within the Indian Panorama Special Package.

The selection of restored films encompasses a variety of regional cinemas, including Hindi, Telugu, Malayalam, Bengali, and Marathi, highlighting the country's diverse artistic legacy preserved through rigorous archival practices.

This year's festival holds particular significance as it marks the 125th anniversary of V. Shantaram and pays tribute to iconic figures such as Guru Dutt, Raj Khosla, Ritwik Ghatak, Bhupen Hazarika, P. Bhanumati, Salil Choudhury, and K. Vaikunth. Additionally, it celebrates 50 years of the NFDC, recognizing its pivotal role in the evolution of contemporary Indian cinema. A special presentation of Shyam Benegal's film Susman will honor the director's lasting impact on the industry.

The films featured at IFFI 2025 exemplify the dedication to restoration, with each undergoing meticulous frame-by-frame digital enhancement and color grading, often overseen by the original filmmakers or their associates. Noteworthy restorations include Ritwik Ghatak's Subarnarekha, which has been restored from a 35mm master positive with final grading by cinematographer Avik Mukhopadhyay, and Muzaffar Ali's Umrao Jaan, restored from a preserved 35mm print under Ali's supervision. His earlier work, Gaman, will also be presented in a reconstructed format.

Other significant restorations include Kalpana Lajmi's Rudaali, B N Reddi's Malleswari, Raj Khosla's CID, Guru Dutt's Pyaasa, and V. Shantaram's Dr Kotnis Ki Amar Kahani. The lineup also features modern classics like Ek Doctor Ki Maut, Ek Hota Vidushak, Kireedam starring Mohanlal, and Musafir.

A unique highlight of the festival is the silent film Muraliwala (1927) by Baburao Painter, which will be screened with live musical accompaniment by Rahul Ranade, alongside the presence of Painter's two surviving daughters. Additional restored films include Ramesh Saigal's Shaheed (1948) and Mani Ratnam's Gitanjali, showcasing a wide array of cinematic eras and storytelling traditions.

Through these restorations, IFFI 2025 not only honors the contributions of India's most significant cinematic figures but also reinforces the nation's dedication to preserving its film heritage for future audiences.