At the upcoming International Film Festival of India (IFFI), Rajinikanth and Nandamuri Balakrishna will be honoured at the closing ceremony for completing 50 years in cinema.
Dr L Murugan, Union Minister of State for Information and Broadcasting, announced the same in the presence of Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant. He said, "Legendary actors Rajinikanth and Nandamuri Balakrishna will be felicitated for completing 50 years in cinema, marking a milestone that celebrates their enduring influence on Indian film culture."
The film festival is scheduled to begin on November 20 and conclude on November 28. L Murugan further added, "They will be felicitated at the closing ceremony, recognising their iconic body of work, widespread popularity, and contribution to shaping Indian storytelling across decades."
Having recently completed 50 years in cinema this August, Rajinikanth made his debut with Apoorva Ragangal in 1975. He was recently seen in Coolie, helmed by Lokesh Kangaraj, which marked his 171st outing. Up next, he will be seen in Jailer 2, helmed by Nelson, on June 12, 2026. He also has a film produced by Kamal Haasan in the pipeline, the director for which is yet to be finalised.
Nandamuri Balakrishna, on the other hand, made his debut with Tatamma Kala in 1974. He has starred in more than 100 films, with some of his famous outings being Samarasimha Reddy, Simha, Aditya 369, and Muddula Mavayya. Last seen in Daaku Maharaj, the actor has Akhanda 2 gearing up for release on December 5. Interestingly, there are speculations that he may share the screen with Rajinikanth in Jailer 2. Apart from acting, he is also serving as an MLA for the ruling TDP in Andhra Pradesh.
The IFFI is getting a fresh twist this year with a gala float parade in Panaji, instead of the traditional inauguration. The festival will feature Japan as the country of focus, Spain as the partner country, and Australia as the spotlight country. It will also showcase award-winning films from top international festivals like Cannes, Berlinale, and Venice.