Thiruvananthapuram: The silver jubilee edition of the International Film Festival of Kerala (IFFK) officially kicked-off on Wednesday adhering to strict COVID-19 health protocol in the backdrop of the pandemic.

Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan inaugurated the festival at 6.00 pm, Thursday,  at the Nishagandhi auditorium here, followed by the screening of the inaugural film, 'Quo Vadis, Aida?

For the first time in the history of the festival, the venues have been divided into four different regions of the state  viz Thiruvananthapuram, Ernakulam, Thalassery and Palakkad-- due to the pandemic.

"The festival will be held scheduled to run between February 10 and 14 in Thiruvananthapuram, February 17-21 at Ernakulam, February 23-27 at Thalassery and March 1-5 at Palakkad. The inaugural ceremony and the award distribution functions will be held in Thiruvananthapuram and Palakkad respectively. The festival duration has been reduced to five days of screening, in six theatres, at each venue," a release issued by the Kerala State Chalachitra Academy said.

Every delegate and official taking part in the festival are being subjected to free antigen tests organized by the academy, in association with the state Health Department.

The 25th edition of the IFFK will also witness new filmmakers making their mark with their intriguing movies. "As many as 10 new filmmakers from Malayalam alone will be exhibiting their works at this year?s festival. Moreover, several newcomers from Tamil, Hindi and a variety of foreign languages are also ready to showcase their talent," Kerala State Chalachitra Academy said.

AAP leader Bandip Dutta, BJP leader Pinku Moni Das join Congress

Ind Vs Eng: This legendary player dropped out of the series due to injury

Upskill for Youth: Kerala CM Launches Knowledge Mission