Too much? Citizens in dilemma as Sawai,PIFF coincide

PIFF director Jabbar Patel,however,felt both the festivals would complement each other. “Last year,the Vasant Mahotsav and PIFF were held at the same time,but it did not affect the viewers. Sawai Gandharva Mahotsav is primarily held in the evening while films at PIFF have repeated screenings; so those who miss one show can attend the subsequent one. We also have musical programmes at our various venues.”

Srinivas Joshi,executive secretary,Arya Sangeet Prasarak Mandal,echoed his views. “The Mahotsav had to be postponed due to swine flu outbreak. But since this festival attracts loyal viewers from all over the state,there are no chances of audiences being in a dilemma. Those coming are ardent fans of music and will continue to attend the festival.”

But enthusiasts like Sulabha Teraliker,a film critic and a music lover,felt the otherway. “On a larger scale,the audiences might seem divided and different but many like me will surely be affected. It seems a tough option this time though I will be present at the inauguration of the film festival and will then try to equalise both the events in terms of attendance.”

This year onwards,the PIFF is also the state’s official film festival. Music collector and writer Adwait Dharmadhikari felt that attending both the events is a feasible option. “Some events might have to be chalked out but people can enjoy both. Moreover,the number of those sharing interests in both is not large.”