In a splendid show of Bollywood camaraderie and the mingling of politicians and celebrities, the 20th Kolkata International Film Festival (KIFF) - India's second oldest movie festival - was inaugurated here on Monday by West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, Bollywood icon Amitabh Bachchan and superstar Shah Rukh Khan.
It was light, camera and action at the Netaji Indoor Stadium here, where an awed audience watched Indian screen giants raise a toast to the cinema buffs in Bengali, for their interest in films and love for film personalities.
Draped in uttariyas (stoles) gifted by Ms Banerjee, the Bachchan clan comprising of Amitabh Bachchan, his wife and veteran actress Jaya, son and actor Abhishek and actress-daughter-in-law Aishwarya set the evening on fire with their oomph, charisma and reiteration of their links to Bengal.
Strains of light classical music by percussionist Bickram Ghosh, classical music vocalist Rashid Khan and singer Usha Uthup set the tune for the magical evening as Big B and SRK hugged each other briefly.
Indian filmmakers Amol Palekar and Shoojit Sircar graced the occasion with a host of Bengali film actors.
Looking suave in black tuxedos, Big B and SRK were assisted by the thali girl, actress Raima Sen in a bright red sari, as they lit the ceremonial lamp with Ms Banerjee.
Thunderous applause went up as Aishwarya and Jaya Bachchan followed suit.
A regular fixture in big events of the state government, SRK, also the state's brand ambassador, was greeted with loud cheers as he urged international delegates to try the variety of sweets from Bengal.
Attired in gold and black, Aishwarya, the former beauty queen launched the official brochure while veteran actress Tanuja and Jaya Bachchan released a music CD of Bengali music.
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