The Kerala State Chalachitra Academy will open delegate registrations for the 18th International Documentary and Short Film Festival of Keralam (IDSFFK) on September 10. The event is scheduled from September 25 to 30 in Thiruvananthapuram.

  • Registration begins September 10 at 10 a.m. via online and offline channels.
  • Festival dates: September 25–30, 2026, at Kairali, Sree, and Nila theatres.
  • Student delegate passes increased from 250 to 500 to boost youth participation.

The cinematic landscape of Thiruvananthapuram is gearing up for one of its most anticipated annual events. The Kerala State Chalachitra Academy has announced that delegate registration for the 18th International Documentary and Short Film Festival of Keralam (IDSFFK) will officially commence at 10 a.m. on Thursday, September 10. This festival serves as a premier gateway for cinephiles and industry professionals to engage with cutting-edge non-fiction and short-form storytelling.

To facilitate a seamless process, delegates can register online through the official portal at https://registration.iffk.in. For those preferring traditional methods, an offline registration desk, known as the Delegate Cell, will be operational from 10 a.m. at the Kairali Theatre.

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Registration Fee Structure

CategoryFee (Including GST)
General Category₹590
Student Category₹354

In a significant move to foster a new generation of filmmakers, the academy has doubled the number of delegate passes allotted to students. The quota has been increased from 250 to 500, reflecting a strategic effort to integrate academic learning with professional cinematic exposure.

Why This Matters

BozokMedia analysis shows that IDSFFK has evolved into more than just a screening event; it is a critical intellectual hub for independent cinema in South India. By prioritizing documentaries and short films, the festival amplifies marginalized voices and addresses socio-political nuances that are frequently overlooked by commercial cinema.

"Documentary cinema is the most potent tool for truth-seeking, and platforms like IDSFFK democratize access to this truth."

The six-day extravaganza will showcase over 300 documentaries and short films categorized into approximately 30 sections. These include competitive and non-competitive segments for animation, music videos, campus films, and international cinema. A poignant 'Homage' section will also be dedicated to honoring the memory of departed film personalities.

Beyond the screens, the festival is designed to be interactive. Sessions such as 'Meet the Director', 'Face 2 Face', and 'In Conversation' will allow delegates to engage in deep dialogues with the creators. Additionally, the event will host specialized masterclasses and vibrant cultural programs to enrich the delegate experience.

Did You Know?: IDSFFK is renowned for bridging the gap between global avant-garde cinema and local grassroots storytelling in Kerala.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: How can I register for IDSFFK 2026?
A: You can register online at https://registration.iffk.in or visit the Delegate Cell at Kairali Theatre in Thiruvananthapuram for offline registration.

Q2: Where will the festival be held?
A: The festival will take place from September 25 to 30, 2026, at the Kairali, Sree, and Nila theatres in Thiruvananthapuram.