
Mukesh Modi To Host Indie Film Fest Awards In NY
India-West News Desk
NEW YORK, NY – Dadasaheb Phalke Award-winning filmmaker Mukesh Modi will host the Indie Film Festival Awards (IFFA) in New York City from June 2 to 5, according to a press release.
Established as a non-profit initiative, IFFA was created by Modi to recognize and elevate independent filmmakers from around the world. This year’s edition has drawn impressive global participation, with 115 submissions from over 20 countries and more than 50 films selected for theatrical showcase.
“Our goal is to give indie filmmakers a platform to shine,” Modi said.
“IFFA is here to make sure their voices are heard, their films are seen, and their efforts are celebrated with pride.”
The four-day festival will open on June 2 with a ceremony at Quad Cinema. Dignitaries expected to attend include Indian Consul General Binay C. Pradhan, Minister of Social Justice and Empowerment Ramdas Athawale, New York City Mayor Eric Adams, and Hollywood personalities Jeff Wallner and Lulu Lopez, along with international models and community leaders.
The festival will culminate on June 5 with an awards ceremony at the Frederick P. Rose Auditorium, honoring outstanding contributions to independent cinema. Notable guests include Hollywood actor Amir Arison, celebrity Jade Shenker, Ms. India Simran Ahuja, TV host Tania Rubis, and executive producer Jeff Wallner. Minister Athawale and Chairman Sehgal are also scheduled to attend.
In addition to film screenings, IFFA will feature panels, workshops, and networking sessions aimed at empowering indie creators. Topics will range from filmmaking and distribution to career development, fostering collaboration among filmmakers, producers, and industry professionals.
Modi, known for his film The Elevator starring Oscar nominee Eric Roberts, as well as the web series Mission Kashi and feature films Political War and Torn—all streaming on Amazon Prime Video—founded IFFA to help independent filmmakers access viable distribution channels.
“IFFA is more than a festival,” Modi said.
“It’s a movement to protect creativity, keep culture alive, and give dreamers the tools to succeed.”
For ticket and pass information, visit www.indiefilmfestivalawards.org.