Rohtak (Haryana) [India], April 12 (HBTV): Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini addressed young talents at the closing ceremony of the Haryana Film Festival on Saturday, calling the event a symbol of deep faith and respect for Haryana's culture, art, and language.

The two-day festival, held at Maharshi Dayanand University in Rohtak, focused on the state's rich culture, history, and folk traditions. It also featured special workshops on cinema and music.

During the closing ceremony, CM Saini praised the Haryana Film Festival for its efforts in preserving and promoting the state's cultural heritage. He expressed satisfaction at the authentic representation of Haryanvi culture showcased during the event.

‘This film festival is a commendable effort to preserve and promote the rich culture of Haryana. It is not just a festival of cinema but also a symbol of our deep faith and respect for Haryanvi culture, art and language. I am happy that there is a precious confluence of bravery, art and culture in the soil of Haryana,’ said CM Nayab Singh Saini.

He also highlighted the authenticity of the state's folk art and expressed confidence that the festival would raise awareness of cinema among the younger generation.

‘The folk art, music and dance here are world famous for their originality and liveliness. I am confident that this film festival will create awareness about cinema among the new generation of viewers and artists,’ the Chief Minister said.

During the event, CM Saini announced that the state government would develop a film city in two phases to support the film industry and encourage local artists.

Actor Rajkummar Rao attended the festival as a chief guest alongside the Chief Minister. Addressing the gathering, Rao encouraged aspiring actors to pursue their passion with sincerity and dedication.

‘I have come to Rohtak for the first time. I have crossed it several times but stopped here for the first time. It is my FTII classmate and friend Jaideep Ahlawat's city. He tells me a lot about this city, and I tell him of Gurugram. I am very happy that the Haryana Film Festival is being organised in 2025,’ said Rajkummar Rao.

He further urged young talents to follow their artistic interests with honesty and hard work, noting that he himself was a living example of what passion and dedication could achieve in the film industry.

‘If you have passion for acting, direction, camera, editing, sound, screenwriting and others, then follow it. If it is a hobby, then keep it like that. But if you genuinely want to pursue it then work with your full heart and honesty. Example is in front of you,’ Rao said.

He also thanked Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini and extended his appreciation to Maharshi Dayanand University for hosting the successful Haryana Film Festival 2025.

(ANI)