Imagine watching Shah Rukh Khan spread his arms, Vikrant Massey’s inspiring journey, and the pulse-racing rescue of a friend, all inside a fully equipped inflatable theatre? In a special collaboration, the National Film Development Corporation (NFDC) and Entertainment Society of Goa (ESG) have partnered with mobile digital theatre pioneer PictureTime Digiplex to install state-of-the-art inflatable cinemas in the upcoming 56th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in Goa.
This innovative partnership brings cutting-edge technology to the festival, enabling audiences to experience high-quality film experiences in a unique and immersive setting. The inflatable theatre will screen a vibrant mix of titles across four categories: Inspirational Films, Indian Panorama Classics, Nostalgia, and Children’s Cinema. For the first time ever, three Shah Rukh Khan classics — Chak De! India, Darr, and Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge — will be showcased in the inflatable cinemas.
The association between PictureTime and IFFI dates back to 2017 when the team organised Bioscope Village. Since then, PictureTime has been working tirelessly to bring mobile digital cinemas to remote villages and underserved regions across the country. Their goal has always been to democratise cinema, making high-quality film experiences accessible to all. The inflatable theatre at Kala Academy is expected to welcome over 1,000 visitors daily, ranging from global delegates and film professionals to school groups and cinephiles.
In addition to the inflatable theatre, open-air screenings across Goa are projected to draw an additional 300–400 viewers per location, daily. This will not only provide a unique experience for the audience but also showcase the diversity and cultural richness of Indian cinema. The programming this year reflects the best of Indian cinema, with a mix of iconic classics and contemporary titles. PictureTime remains committed to innovating how cinema is created, consumed, and accessed across the country.
The partnership between NFDC, ESG, and PictureTime is a significant milestone in the history of IFFI. It showcases the festival's commitment to innovation and its willingness to push boundaries. The inflatable theatre is not just a technological marvel but also a testament to the power of collaboration and creativity. As the festival begins on November 20 and closes on November 28, audiences can look forward to an unforgettable experience that will leave them eager for more.
The impact of this partnership extends beyond the festival itself. It has the potential to inspire a new generation of film enthusiasts and creatives. By providing access to high-quality film experiences, PictureTime is not only entertaining audiences but also empowering them to dream big. As the world continues to evolve, it is essential to invest in innovative technologies that can bring people together. The inflatable theatre at IFFI 2025 is a shining example of this vision, and its success will undoubtedly pave the way for future collaborations and innovations in the film industry.
