This December, the IT city for the first time will host the Karnataka International Children Film Festival (KINCHIFF). Even though Bengaluru has been hosting International Children Film Festival since long, it was entirely organized by a private organization – Children’s India. However, considering the viewership for children movies, the state government has decided to conduct International children film festival at the same time when the city hosts its annual international film festival. A formal announcement will be made on Monday by Roshan Baig, the minister for information.

An official of Karnataka Chalanachitra Academy said, “The 7th edition of Bangalore International Film Festival (BIFF) will be held between December 4 and 11. It is possible that the government may hold the Children Film Festival during the same period. Knowing well that there has been tremendous response for children’s movie, the government has decided to conduct the International Children Film Festival.”

Preparations are already underway for the 7th edition of BIFF. Karnataka Chalanachitra Academy, Information Department and Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce have been working in unison to conduct the festival. The 6th edition of BIFF witnessed screening of whopping 166 cinemas in as many as seven theatres of the city and close to about 50 countries took part in the festival.

“This year, we are expecting participation of about 60 countries and planning to screen close to about 200 cinemas. There has been tremendous response already and we’ve been flooded with entries. With the Children Films Festival during the same time we hope that the number of movies may cross 22,” word from an official.