IFFI begins with Chinese period drama `Wheat`

Panaji: `Wheat`, the story of two warring Chinese dynasties set in 260 BC, opened the 40th edition of the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) with veteran actress Waheeda Rehman being the Chief Guest at the inaugural ceremony here today. Directed by filmmaker He Ping, the film explores the period when China was mired in a long and bloody war between the Qin and the Zhao kingdoms.

The inaugural ceremony was held at Kala Academy in the presence of Information and Broadcasting Minister Ambika Soni, Chief Minister Digambar Kamat and Bollywood actress Asin, who assisted the dignitaries in lighting the ceremonial lamp. Over 6000 delegates from around the world are expected to attend the festival with Oscar-winning actor Ben Kingsley is scheduled to arrive for the second half of IIFI. PTI