Assam government on Monday signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Times Group to host the prestigious Filmfare Awards in Guwahati next year.
Notably, this is the first time in over six decades that the ‘black lady’ will be presented outside Mumbai, the entertainment capital.
Attening the ceremony held at the Vivanta by Taj hotel in Khanapara, state chief minister Sarbananda Sonowal said the hosting of the prestigious event would help take Assam to the national stage and showcase it as ‘one of the most attractive tourist destinations in the country’.
A momentous day for us, as Guwahati, the Gateway to #SEAsia, is all set to host the 65th Filmfare Awards on 15th February, 2020.
Attended the MoU Signing between Govt of Assam and The Times Group today for hosting the award ceremony in presence of MD Shri @vineetjaintimes. pic.twitter.com/Yx2r4ghclL
— Sarbananda Sonowal (@sarbanandsonwal) November 25, 2019
Managing Director of Times Group Vineet Jain who was present on the occasion said this is an effort by the company to ‘diversify’ its reach.
“Choosing Assam, a state rich in the performing arts, crafts, and music further extends the legacy of the Filmfare awards,” Jain said.
State tourism minister Chandan Brahma who was also present during signing of the MoU said hosting of a mega event like the Filmfare Awards in Assam, will go a long way in changing the perception about the State.
The Filmfare Awards are presented annually by the Times Group to honour both artistic and technical excellence of professionals in the film industry of India.
The Filmfare ceremony is one of the oldest movie events in the country.
The awards were first instituted in 1954.