When the curtains rise on the 24th Pune International Film Festival (PIFF) this January, the spotlight will not only shine on world cinema but also on the enduring brilliance of Guru Dutt—one of India’s most revered filmmakers, directors, and actors.

From January 15 to 22, ten cinemas across Pune will host screenings that weave together global cinematic gems, Marathi films, and a curated showcase of Guru Dutt’s masterpieces. Festival Director Dr Jabbar Patel has confirmed that this year’s edition is dedicated to the legendary artist whose work continues to inspire generations.

Read in Hindi: गुरु दत्त की विरासत संग पुणे में होगा विश्व सिनेमा का संगम

Born in Bengaluru on July 9, 1925, as Vasant Kumar Shivshankar Padukone, Guru Dutt carved a unique space in Indian cinema as a writer, producer, director, actor, and choreographer. Mumbai and Pune became the canvas for his creativity, where he crafted films that blended artistry with social resonance. Though his life ended tragically at the age of forty, his films—marked by poetic storytelling and hauntingly beautiful visuals—left an indelible imprint on Indian cinema. To honour his centenary, the Government of India’s postal department has even issued a commemorative stamp.

PIFF itself has become a cultural landmark. For over two decades, every January, the Pune Film Foundation, in collaboration with the Maharashtra Government’s Cultural Affairs Department and Dadasaheb Phalke Chitranagari, has brought together cinephiles from across the globe. The festival is celebrated for its diverse programming, offering audiences a chance to experience films from different countries, each exploring unique themes and perspectives.

This year, the festival promises to be a confluence of nostalgia and discovery. While world cinema competitions and Marathi showcases will highlight contemporary voices, Guru Dutt’s films will remind audiences of the timeless artistry that defined an era.

Online registration for PIFF has already opened, with screenings scheduled daily from 11 AM to 7 PM across participating theatres. For cinephiles, it is not just a festival—it is a pilgrimage into the heart of cinema, where past and present meet on the silver screen.