MISSOULA, Mont. (Diya TV) — The University of Montana in Missoula hosted the inaugural “Festival of Indian Cinema” from March 2 to 4, 2025, offering students a vibrant exploration of India’s cultural diversity through film. This event, a collaboration between the Consulate General of India in Seattle and the Montana World Affairs Council, marked Montana’s first Indian film festival.
Over 500 students from 33 schools statewide attended the festival, which showcased acclaimed Indian films such as “English Vinglish,” “Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara,” and “Raksha Bandhan.” The screenings aimed to deepen students’ understanding of India’s rich cultural tapestry.
The opening ceremony featured notable attendees, including Prakash Gupta, Consul General of India in Seattle; Wilmot J. Collins, Mayor of Helena; and Nikki Geiszler, Executive Director of the Montana World Affairs Council. Their presence underscored the significance of cultural exchange and global education.
The festival coincided with the Montana Academic WorldQuest 2025, an annual conference that immerses high school students in global affairs. This year’s theme spotlighted India, aligning with the festival’s objectives. Beyond film screenings, students engaged in interactive sessions on Indian classical dance and music, learned about India’s digital payment platforms, and explored the cultural importance of events like the Maha Kumbh.
Highlighting the festival’s impact, winning teams from the Academic WorldQuest are slated to visit India later this year, offering them firsthand experience of the country’s cultural and technological advancements.
Since its inception in 2005, Montana’s Academic WorldQuest has engaged over 4,000 students, establishing itself as a premier international education program. The integration of the Indian film festival into this year’s event provided a unique, immersive experience, fostering cross-cultural understanding among Montana’s youth.
