The 16th edition of Anifest India, the oldest and most beloved International Animation Festival, was a testament to the vibrancy and ingenuity of the animation and visual effects (AVGC) industry. Hosted over two full days at the sprawling MIT-WPU, Kothrud Campus in Pune, the event brought together a rich tapestry of talent, expertise, and innovation.
A Celebration of Excellence: Anifest India 2024 boasted a diverse lineup of 55 speakers and drew participants from 40+ design and animation schools, along with 1600 attendees. It was an immersive experience filled with engaging sessions, workshops, and exhibitions. The inaugural ceremony set the tone for the festival, with Shri. Rahul V Karad, Managing Trustee & Executive President of MAEER’s MIT Group of Institutions and Executive President of MIT World Peace University, expressing his support and admiration for the animation community.
Unique Features of Anifest India 2024: This edition was marked by several firsts, including being the first time the festival was held outside Mumbai. The event introduced a new format of multiple tracks running simultaneously, offering attendees a diverse array of content. A dedicated portfolio review track provided personalized evaluation and guidance to aspiring animators. The festival also featured specialized tracks for students and parents, aiming to provide valuable career guidance.
Speakers and Sessions: Anifest India 2024 hosted a distinguished lineup of speakers, including Oscar-nominated directors, National award-winning filmmakers, sound designers, and music composers. The festival showcased live demonstrations and hands-on workshops, providing attendees with insights into sculpting, storyboarding, and stop-motion animation.
Curated Content and Community Spirit: The festival’s focus on content curation and community-driven initiatives shone through, emphasizing a culture of learning and collaboration. The event served as a platform for animators to connect, learn, and share their experiences, further solidifying TASI’s reputation as a leader in the animation industry.
The Ram Mohan Viewers’ Choice Awards: Anifest India’s prestigious awards, where the audience votes for their favorite films, added an interactive element to the festival. This year, an electronic voting system streamlined the process, providing instant results.
TASI’s Commitment to Excellence: TASI, a non-profit organization formed in 2001, has been at the forefront of promoting animation in India. Over the past 23 years, TASI has conducted over 500 curated sessions and 15 annual multi-day festivals in Mumbai, demonstrating its dedication to fostering a vibrant animation community.
Looking Ahead: Anifest India 2024 was a celebration of creativity, collaboration, and innovation. As the animation industry continues to evolve, events like Anifest India play a vital role in driving growth, learning, and inspiration. With each edition, the festival aims to raise the bar, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in the world of animation.
