Mumbai, October 15 – Actress Aishwarya Rai Bachchan Tuesday declared the 16th Mumbai Film Festival open, calling it a “honour” to be given the privilege. “Kudos to the team and everybody who has made this happen.
I knew what was going on and what it took to keep the flag going. I am experiencing the conviction, belief, faith they had to keep this festival going. I take such pride and such an honour to be standing here today and declaring 16th Mumbai Film festival open,” Aishwarya told reporters after the opening ceremony.
Aishwarya, Helen and Catherine Deneuve were the guest of honour at the opening ceremony. Helen and Catherine were conferred lifetime achievement awards. Veteran actresses Helen and Catherine Deneuve were Tuesday conferred lifetime achievement award at the opening ceremony of 16th Mumbai Film Festival.
While actress Aishwarya Rai Bachchan presented the award to Catherine, actor Akshay Kumar honoured Helen. “Lifetime achievement sounds like a strong word. I am very touched with this award.
It was nice for me to be here for the 16th Mumbai film festival. It’s nice to see people who love cinema coming together… its a real pleasure to be here tonight,” said Catherine.
Helen said she has come a long way.
“I have come a very long way. I started working when I was 13 so its been a long journey. I am happy to be here to get this life time achievement award. It feels great.” The 16th MAMI film festival opened Tuesday night with a screening of “Serena” and will continue till Oct 21.
-INDIA TODAY
