11th Rajasthan International Film Festival (RIFF) Showcases Special Screening of Chitraanjali

Jodhpur – The 2025 Rajasthan International Film Festival proudly presented a special screening of Chitraanjali, a film that highlights the extraordinary journey of Polish artist Stefan Norblin in India. This unique presentation forms a vital part of the festival’s ongoing commitment to celebrating the confluence of diverse cultural narratives and artistic legacies.

Malgorzata Wejsis-Gołębiak, Director of the Polish Institute, shared her enthusiasm for the event, stating: “We are honored to participate in this prestigious festival and to present Chitraanjali, a film that sheds light on the remarkable journey of Polish artist Stefan Norblin in India. His work, deeply embedded in the artistic heritage of Jodhpur, Morvi, and Ramgarh, is a testament to the enduring cultural ties between Poland and India. This screening is not just a tribute to Norblin’s legacy but also a celebration of the shared artistic and historical connections between our two nations.”

Following the screening, a dynamic discussion took place featuring Malgorzata Wejsis-Gołębiak alongside renowned film critic and journalist Murtaza Ali Khan. The dialogue was further enriched by the participation of Sunil Laghate, Centre Director of the Mehrangarh Art Conservation Centre (MACC), and Rajat Jangid, conservator-restorer at Mehrangarh Art Conservation Centre, who contributed valuable insights on art conservation and cultural heritage.

This special event at the festival not only celebrated the artistic endeavors of Stefan Norblin but also underscored the importance of preserving and promoting the cultural bonds that unite India and Poland. The festival continues to serve as a platform for fostering international dialogue, cross-cultural exchange, and creative collaboration in the world of cinema and the arts.

Speaking about Poland’s participation, Somendra Harsh, Festival Director, Rajasthan International Film Festival said, “We are thrilled to have Poland as a participating country at the 2025 Rajasthan International Film Festival and to host Ms. Malgorzata Wejsis-Gołębiak, Director of the Polish Institute. Polish cinema has a rich legacy, with visionary filmmakers like Andrzej Wajda, Krzysztof Kieślowski, and Agnieszka Holland leaving an indelible mark on world cinema. We look forward to continuing this collaboration, fostering deeper cultural exchange through the power of storytelling.”

At the closing ceremony, the noted Polish filmmaker Rafael Stemplewski was bestowed with the RIFF 2025 Award for ‘Excellence for Contribution to International Cinema’ by His Highness Maharaja Shri Gaj Singh II of Jodhpur. Malgorzata Wejsis-Gołębiak, Director, Polish Institute, was also recognized for her lifelong commitment towards boosting the cultural ties between India and Poland.