MUMBAI, JAN 22 :  Cultural Affairs Minister Sudhir Mungantiwar on Saturday asserted here that cinema is not just a medium of entertainment but also a powerful force for personality development.

Speaking at the closing ceremony of the Mumbai International Film Festival, the Minister said the actors of the film industry are the real Kohinoor diamonds of the country.

Mungantiwar said the film is a mirror of society. “What is going on in the society is seen in the film. The first movie in India was Raja Harishchandra,” he said adding, “we are proud that the Indian film industry started in Maharashtra, a Marathi man did it.”

“Films have a great impact on human structure and mentality. Movies have the power to shape a person’s life and personality, we see examples where a dialogue in a movie, a song, or even a verse of a song shows a person the way of life. Producers, directors, screenwriters, actors, and behind-the-scenes actors who make this happen are the true Kohinoor of this country. So the film industry should be aware of this power,” he said.

On this occasion, he appealed to all, to resolve to instill pride in the country and culture through the film industry. He praised the Mumbai International Film Festival for organizing it well.(UNI)