Manifest Dance-Film Festival is an annual festival dedicated to the contemporary art of dance-film, exploring works that use movement and choreography as primary narrative tools through collaborations between dancers and filmmakers. Launched in 2022, the festival brings international and Indian dance-films to audiences through screenings, discussions, and industry-focused programmes. The 2026 edition marks the festival's fifth edition and its inaugural presentation at the multi-arts studio Vision Vivekananda.
The festival showcases a curated selection of dance-films from around the world, with a particular focus on works from the Global South and films engaging with Asian and Indian dance traditions. Previous editions have featured films from more than 20 countries, presenting diverse approaches to movement, storytelling, cinematography, and screen-based performance. The festival also presents awards recognising excellence in categories such as choreography, direction, cinematography, editing, music, and sound design.
A key component of the festival is the Manifest Dance-Film Incubator, which supports the development of original dance-film projects from concept to exhibition. Through mentorship, technical training, and production support, the incubator encourages experimentation and expands opportunities for dance-filmmaking practitioners working across disciplines.
Check out other dance festivals here.
How to Reach Puducherry?
- By Air: Flights to Puducherry Airport are available from Hyderabad and Bengaluru. Chennai International Airport is located 135 km away. Chennai is well connected to many cities in India like Delhi, Mumbai, Kochi, Thiruvananthapuram, Pune, Hyderabad etc. Taxis can be hired from the airport to reach Puducherry.
- By Train: Villupuram, the nearest railway station, is 35 km away. Villupuram is connected to Trichy (Tiruchirappalli), Madurai and Chennai by regular train services. Taxi services are available from Villupuram to Puducherry.
- By Bus: Private tourist buses ply from Chennai, Madurai and Bengaluru to Puducherry. Buses also connect Puducherry to Thanjavur, Trichy, Chidamabaram and Coimbatore. There are frequent buses, almost every 15 minutes from Koyembedu in Chennai. Express buses take three-and-half-hours to reach Puducherry.
- Light, breathable clothing and comfortable footwear, as July is warm and humid with occasional showers.
- A compact umbrella or light rain jacket to stay prepared for sudden spells of rain.
- A reusable water bottle, basic medicines, and mosquito repellent, especially for long days outdoors in the humidity.
- A tote bag or small backpack, along with cash and cards, for carrying essentials and managing easy payments on the go.
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