24 May,2026 07:45 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Mumbai Mayor Ritu Tawde said that Mumbai’s film sector should continue evolving through collaboration and innovation. Pic/BMC
Mumbai Mayor Ritu Tawde on Sunday said that collective efforts are needed to make film industry more creative, inclusive and inspiring, while highlighting the city's growing global recognition as a centre of cinema, an official statement said.
She was speaking at the inauguration of the "UNESCO Creative City of Film - Mumbai" initiative organised jointly by the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), the UNESCO Creative Cities Network and the National Gallery of Modern Art.
The event was held at the National Gallery of Modern Art in South Mumbai.
Tawde said Mumbai receiving recognition from UNESCO as a "Creative City of Film" was a proud moment not only for the city but also for India's film industry.
According to her, the honour acknowledges Mumbai's rich cinematic heritage and its major contribution towards shaping Indian and global cinema.
She said Mumbai's film sector should continue evolving through collaboration and innovation, adding that the municipal corporation would extend full support to such efforts.
Speaking during the ceremony, Tawde said the strength of Mumbai's film industry lies in its inclusiveness.
Artists and technicians from across India have contributed to making Mumbai the centre of the country's entertainment industry, she said, describing Mumbai cinema as a reflection of India itself.
The mayor also stressed that cinema is not only a source of entertainment but also an important creative and economic force that supports thousands of people working behind the scenes.
Highlighting Mumbai's cultural identity, Tawde said the city offers people an opportunity to fulfil their dreams.
Calling Mumbai "One City, Endless Stories", she noted that the film industry contributes significantly to the economy of India's financial capital.
She added that animation, documentaries and short films have also enriched Mumbai's creative landscape and helped strengthen different streams of filmmaking.
Among those present at the event were actress Shriya Sachin Pilgaonkar, film producer Rohan Sippy, IMPPA president Abhay Sinha and Belarus Consul Alexander Matsukov.
Matsukov said Belarus and India share strong ties in the field of cinema and noted that Indian films are regularly showcased and honoured at film festivals in Belarus.
He also said he had grown up watching Indian films and described himself as a fan of veteran actor Mithun Chakraborty.
The "Mumbai Gaurav Sohala - UNESCO Creative City of Film" programme is being organised from 22 May to 31 May 2026 at the National Gallery of Modern Art.
The initiative celebrates Mumbai's cinematic heritage, global contribution to film and creative legacy.
The programme includes interactions with filmmakers and actors, screenings of classic films and animation features, special discussions and artistic performances.
Organisers said entry to the event is open to all and encouraged film enthusiasts and citizens to participate.
