Mumbai, India – May 2025: Dadasaheb Phalke International Film Festival (DPIFF), one of India’s most prestigious cinematic platforms, has officially issued a statement categorically denouncing the false and malicious allegations levied against its organisation and leadership. The Festival, known for upholding the legacy of India’s cinematic pioneer Dadasaheb Phalke, reaffirmed its continued dedication to honouring excellence in Indian and global cinema.

In recent weeks, as the Festival was preparing for its much-anticipated annual celebration of cinematic brilliance, originally slated for February 20th, 2025, at Taj Lands End, Mumbai, certain individuals engaged in an unlawful extortion attempt aimed at disrupting the event. Following the refusal to comply with their demands, these individuals resorted to spreading fabricated narratives and targeted defamatory attacks against DPIFF’s Managing Director Mr. Anil Mishra and CEO Mr. Abhishek Mishra.

These developments posed significant safety threats to the organising committee, delegates, and attending artists, compelling the DPIFF team to responsibly postpone the ceremony. Legal intervention was promptly sought. The matter is now under judicial review, with a formal clearance and verification of clean antecedents currently underway at Bandra Police Station for DPIFF, Mr. Anil Mishra, and Mr. Abhishek Mishra.

In an official statement, Mr. Abhishek Mishra, CEO of DPIFF, shared: “Since its inception, Dadasaheb Phalke International Film Festival has stood as a proud torchbearer of India’s rich cinematic legacy, committed to celebrating artistic excellence. Recent challenges only strengthened our resolve. We upheld the truth with dignity and are grateful to the Indian judicial system for reaffirming it. To every artist, filmmaker, and cinephile, thank you for your unwavering support. We now look forward to an even bigger and brighter celebration of Indian cinema and the artists that make Indian cinema what it is.”

DPIFF urges the media, public, partners, and members of the film fraternity not to fall prey to misinformation and baseless allegations. The organisation remains focused on its long-standing mission: to promote Indian cinema, recognise emerging and established talent, and provide a global platform for creative storytelling.

Link to the Official Statement: https://www.instagram.com/p/DJ6RFvdzcPZ/

Over the years, the Festival has grown into a cultural movement that bridges the gap between Indian heritage and contemporary filmmaking. DPIFF is the only independent award ceremony in India to have achieved both national and international recognition, bringing together the very best of Bollywood, regional cinema, independent films, and global talent.

Despite temporary setbacks, DPIFF promises to return soon with renewed energy and grandeur. Plans are underway to reschedule the annual ceremony, which will continue to showcase Indian cinema at its finest, with the elegance, integrity, and celebration it rightfully deserves.

In the spirit of unity, the Festival calls upon its community to continue supporting authentic artistic expression and the values of honesty, justice, and creativity.

For official updates, follow DPIFF on Instagram and visit the official website: www.dpiff.in