Acclaimed filmmaker Ashutosh Gowariker was on Friday appointed as the director of the 57th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) to be held in Goa. Known for directing “Lagaan” and “Jodhaa Akbar”, Gowariker has a long association with IFFI, previously serving as the Jury President for International Cinema.“It gives me immense pride and joy to serve as the Festival Director for the prestigious 57th International Film Festival of India, Goa. I feel privileged to have witnessed the evolution of this festival. From attending it in 1984 to continuing my association over the years, right up to 2024, when I served as the Jury President for International Cinema,” Gowariker said in a statement.He further added, “To carry forward the legacy that has been created, nurtured, and expanded over the decades since 1952 by innumerable festival teams, is a great honour, accompanied by a renewed sense of responsibility. I look forward to working closely with the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting and the Government of Goa.”The International Film Festival of India, established in 1952, is one of Asia’s premier film festivals and serves as a significant platform for showcasing excellence in global cinema while promoting cultural exchange.Gowariker started his career as an actor, making his debut in 1984 in director Ketan Mehta’s film “Holi”. On the “Holi” sets, Gowariker met Aamir Khan with whom he later went on to collaborate on different film projects. His first film of the new millennium was the epic musical sports drama “Lagaan”, produced by and starring Khan. The film received positive reviews from critics upon release, with praise for its direction, soundtrack, performances of the cast and its anti-imperialist stance.