Gujarat Tourism Minister Shri Mulubhai Bera and DPIFF CEO Abhishek Mishra Discuss Strategic Alliance to Promote Cultural Tourism
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Bhuj, Gujarat | May 26, 2025 – In a significant stride toward fostering India’s cultural heritage and boosting tourism through the power of cinema, Shri Mulubhai Bera, Hon’ble Minister of Tourism, Cultural Activities, Forest & Environment, and Climate Change, Government of Gujarat, held a high-level discussion with Shri Abhishek Mishra, CEO of Dadasaheb Phalke International Film Festival (DPIFF).
The meeting, held in the culturally vibrant city of Bhuj, marked six years of collaboration between Gujarat Tourism and DPIFF—a partnership committed to driving cultural diplomacy and promoting India’s lesser-known stories on a global platform.
Strengthening India’s Cultural Identity Through Strategic Collaboration
At the heart of the discussion was a shared vision: to intertwine the magic of cinema with the richness of Gujarat’s cultural and ecological landscape. Minister Bera, a seasoned leader and a passionate advocate for Gujarat’s heritage, emphasized the transformative role tourism has played in the state’s development.
He highlighted Gujarat’s ascent as a leading cultural tourism hub, driven by visionary leadership and sustainable innovation. Key destinations were discussed as part of the state’s ever-evolving tourism narrative:
Somnath Jyotirlinga – A revered spiritual site and testament to India’s ancient devotion.
Gir National Park – The only natural habitat of the majestic Asiatic lions.
Rann of Kutch – Famed for its surreal white desert and the spectacular Rann Utsav.
Statue of Unity – The world’s tallest statue honoring the Iron Man of India, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel.
Shivrajpur Beach – Gujarat’s Blue Flag-certified beach that exemplifies eco-conscious tourism.
Minister Bera also reaffirmed Gujarat’s commitment to blending tradition with modernity, encouraging innovations that elevate Gujarat’s presence in the global tourism ecosystem.
Cinema as a Catalyst for Tourism: DPIFF’s Vision
Shri Abhishek Mishra, CEO of DPIFF, echoed the minister’s sentiments and outlined a roadmap where cinema becomes a vital storytelling tool for tourism promotion.
“Cinema is not just entertainment—it’s an emotional and cultural connector. At DPIFF, we aim to spotlight the soul of India, and Gujarat offers an incredible canvas for this mission,” said Mishra.
He also discussed DPIFF’s plans to utilize short films, celebrity-led content, regional film festivals, and digital campaigns to portray Gujarat’s cultural and natural beauty to a global audience. The intention is to bring attention to offbeat destinations and drive tourism growth through cinematic engagement.
Planned Initiatives for Cultural-Tourism Integration
Both parties agreed on several collaborative efforts to deepen the synergy between Gujarat’s tourism initiatives and DPIFF’s cultural outreach:
Hosting regional film festivals and cultural programs in Gujarat’s heritage-rich locations.
Producing short films and documentaries that highlight the stories of Gujarat’s people, landmarks, and traditions.
Launching integrated marketing campaigns that blend tourism with cinema and celebrity participation.
Developing digital-first experiences to attract millennial and Gen Z travelers worldwide.
These initiatives aim to promote Gujarat as a preferred location for filmmakers and tourists alike, contributing to India's larger goal of cultural preservation and international visibility.
Minister Bera: A Champion of Culture and Sustainability
With over two decades of public service, Shri Mulubhai Bera has become a key figure in Gujarat’s tourism transformation. His leadership continues to shape policies that balance ecological preservation with cultural development, positioning Gujarat as a model for other states.
From developing rural eco-tourism circuits to reviving spiritual destinations, Minister Bera has remained committed to empowering local communities and promoting sustainable travel experiences. His deep understanding of Gujarat’s heritage and his ability to adapt to modern tourism trends make him a formidable force in shaping India’s cultural future.
Abhishek Mishra: Championing India’s Cultural Renaissance through DPIFF
Under the leadership of Abhishek Mishra, DPIFF has emerged as a global cultural platform that honors excellence in cinema while also supporting social causes, environmental sustainability, and tourism development. As the youngest CEO to lead such a high-impact cultural movement, Mishra’s focus is firmly rooted in celebrating India’s legacy while embracing innovation.
His emphasis on public-private partnerships and community engagement has enabled DPIFF to reach new heights, establishing it as India’s most credible and transparent film festival.
Looking Ahead: A National Narrative Rooted in Culture and Creativity
This collaborative dialogue between Gujarat Tourism and DPIFF is not just about films or festivals—it is about building a national narrative that celebrates culture, empowers communities, and invites the world to experience India’s timeless legacy.
By integrating tourism with the visual power of cinema, this partnership is poised to create immersive experiences for audiences and travelers alike, ultimately strengthening India’s global soft power.
About DPIFF
The Dadasaheb Phalke International Film Festival (DPIFF) is India’s only independent international film festival named in honor of the Father of Indian Cinema. DPIFF is dedicated to celebrating the spirit of storytelling while promoting Indian heritage, talent, and tourism through inclusive and culturally resonant programming.
Each year, the festival hosts luminaries from cinema, politics, and business, creating a platform where art meets advocacy and creativity drives impact.
