The seventh edition of the International Kolkata Short Film Festival has received more than 250 submissions from 18 countries and will be held from January 18 to 24, 2027.
International Kolkata Short Film Festival Draws Global Participation
The International Kolkata Short Film Festival (IKSFF) has received more than 250 film submissions from 18 countries for its seventh edition, underscoring the event’s growing international appeal and reputation among filmmakers.
The organisers have also announced the opening of the Extended Regular Submission phase, offering filmmakers additional time to submit their entries across various categories.
With participation from countries around the world, the festival continues to establish itself as an important platform for independent cinema, emerging talent and creative storytelling.
Festival to Expand to Seven Days for the First Time
The upcoming edition of the festival is scheduled to take place from January 18 to 24, 2027, marking the first time that the event will run for an entire week.
The expanded format reflects the festival’s increasing scale and ambition. Over the seven days, attendees will be able to participate in a wide range of activities, including film screenings, masterclasses, seminars, workshops, panel discussions and networking sessions.
The organisers have also planned international screenings, red-carpet events and a grand awards ceremony as part of the programme.
Wide Range of Categories Open for Entries
According to the organisers, filmmakers can submit their works in several categories that cater to diverse storytelling formats and genres.
The categories include:
- Short Film
- Long Short Film
- Documentary
- Animation
- AI Short Film
- Environmental Film
- Music Video
- Advertisement and Commercial Film
- Public Service Announcement (PSA)
The inclusion of newer formats such as AI Short Films highlights the festival’s efforts to embrace evolving technologies and changing trends in filmmaking.
More Than 40 Awards Up for Grabs
Selected entries will compete in over 40 award categories, providing recognition to filmmakers, actors, technicians and creative professionals from around the world.
The awards ceremony is expected to be one of the key highlights of the festival, celebrating excellence in storytelling and cinematic innovation.
Organisers believe that the growing number of submissions and the increasing international participation demonstrate the festival’s importance in promoting independent cinema and fostering cross-cultural artistic exchanges.
Kolkata Strengthens Its Position as a Cultural Hub
Kolkata has long been regarded as one of India’s leading centres for art, literature and cinema. The success of the International Kolkata Short Film Festival further reinforces the city’s status as a hub for creative expression and film culture.
By bringing together filmmakers, industry professionals and audiences from different countries, the festival aims to encourage collaboration, learning and the exchange of ideas.
As preparations continue for the seventh edition, the organisers are hopeful that the expanded event will provide an even larger platform for emerging voices and innovative filmmaking.
Key Takeaways
- The International Kolkata Short Film Festival has received more than 250 entries from 18 countries.
- The festival will be held from January 18 to 24, 2027.
- The event will be expanded to seven days for the first time.
- Categories include short films, documentaries, animation and AI short films.
- Selected films will compete in more than 40 award categories.
FAQs
When will the International Kolkata Short Film Festival be held?
The festival is scheduled to take place from January 18 to 24, 2027.
How many submissions has the festival received?
The seventh edition has received more than 250 entries from 18 countries.
What categories are open for submissions?
The festival accepts entries in categories such as short films, documentaries, animation, AI short films, music videos and public service announcements.
How many awards will be presented?
Selected films will compete across more than 40 award categories.
