'The 11th MFF will showcase the best in contemporary Indian cinema even while it takes a look back at cinema down the ages. We also want to encourage young film talent and have a forum for that,' said Benegal.

The festival will have a five member international jury including the likes of celebrated Hollywood scriptwriter-director Paul Schrader, who penned 'Taxi Driver' and Iranian filmmaker Jafar Panahi.

MFF carries some of the biggest cash awards for its International Competition of First Feature Films of Directors category. These debut features will compete for the cash award of about $100,000 (Rs.5 million) and Golden Gateway India trophy for the best film and the Silver Gateway India and cash prize of about $50,000 (Rs.2.5 million) for the Jury Grand Prize.

The best talent from these films will be given Silver Gateway India. This year MAMI is introducing a $20,000 Audience Choice Award (about Rs.1 million). Films from all sections except retrospective and tributes will compete for this award.

The movies will be screened at Fun Republic 4 screens multiplex in Andheri, which will be the central venue of the 11th MFF. However, festival films will also be screened at Metro BIG Cinema and other theatres.