Norwegian Film Safe House Wins the ICFT–UNESCO Gandhi Medal at IFFI 56

The 56th International Film Festival of India (IFFI), held in Goa, has announced its prestigious ICFT–UNESCO Gandhi Medal winner for 2025: the Norwegian feature film Safe House. The award, presented annually in collaboration with UNESCO’s International Council for Film, Television and Audiovisual Communication (ICFT), honours a film that best reflects Mahatma Gandhi’s values of peace, tolerance, and non-violence.

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A Medal Crafted Around Gandhian Ideals

The ICFT–UNESCO Gandhi Medal is one of IFFI’s most meaningful honours. It is given to a film that embodies the spirit of humanism, compassion, and ethical storytelling—central principles championed by Gandhi. Each year, the selection draws global attention to cinematic works that provoke reflection on humanity’s shared challenges.

This year’s jury found Safe House to be a powerful expression of these principles. The film’s narrative—rooted in empathy, moral courage, and the search for safety and dignity—resonated deeply with the award’s purpose. Although a Norwegian story, its themes carry universal relevance, illustrating how cinema can bridge cultures and spark conversations across borders.

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Why Safe House Stood Out

Safe House received strong praise from festival audiences and the jury for its sensitive portrayal of people navigating fear, displacement, and the need for trust in times of adversity. Its storytelling blends emotional depth with a restrained, humanist lens—an approach that mirrors Gandhi’s insistence on understanding, coexistence, and non-violent paths to resolution.

The film’s craftsmanship—marked by grounded performances, atmospheric visuals, and thoughtful pacing—reinforced its impact, securing its place among the standout entries of IFFI 56.

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A Global Spotlight at IFFI 56

IFFI’s partnership with UNESCO for this medal highlights the festival’s role in promoting films that advance cultural understanding. As one of Asia’s leading film festivals, IFFI continues to champion cinema that inspires reflection and fosters dialogue.

With Safe House taking home this year’s Gandhi Medal, the festival once again underscores how filmmaking from around the world can echo India’s enduring legacy of peace and inclusiveness.

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