Ultra Media & Entertainment Group turned heads at the IFFI 2025 Carnival Parade with a grand, visually striking tableau that paid homage to the timeless legacy of Guru Dutt while celebrating the company’s own four-decade journey in Indian entertainment.

As the International Film Festival of India opened with its trademark cultural vibrancy, Ultra’s cinematic float quickly emerged as one of the most admired highlights of the evening.

The festival was inaugurated by Governor Pusapati Ashok Gajapathi Raju and Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant, who initiated proceedings by watering a Tulsi plant — a symbolic gesture underscoring the event’s commitment to cultural roots and sustainable values. Against this backdrop, Ultra Media’s participation added emotional depth to the celebration, especially with its dual tribute that connected classic Indian cinema with today’s digital-forward entertainment ecosystem.

Ultra’s tableau unfolded in two compelling chapters. The first, a heartfelt centenary tribute to Guru Dutt on his 100th birth anniversary, recreated the cinematic magic of his iconic works including ‘Pyaasa’, ‘Chaudhvin Ka Chand’, ‘Kagaz Ke Phool’, and ‘Sahib Bibi Aur Ghulam’. The float captured the delicate interplay of light, shadow, and poetic imagery that defined Guru Dutt’s filmmaking, evoking nostalgia among festivalgoers and reminding audiences of his unmatched influence on Indian cinematic storytelling.

The second chapter traced Ultra Media’s own transformation from a VHS-era pioneer to a modern digital entertainment leader. Through vivid backlit visuals, life-size installations, and interactive digital displays, the tableau showcased the company’s expanding OTT portfolio — Ultra Play for Hindi content, Ultra Jhakaas for Marathi programming, and Ultra Gaane dedicated to music. With its new and upcoming platforms, Ultra emphasized its growing commitment to presenting culturally rooted, multilingual stories to audiences globally.

Speaking at the event, Sushilkumar Agrawal, Chairman & CEO of Ultra Media & Entertainment Group, said the tribute was a reflection of the company’s longstanding dedication to preserving India’s cinematic heritage. “Guru Dutt’s centenary tribute represents our deep respect for a filmmaker whose work continues to illuminate Indian cinema. At Ultra, we have spent over four decades preserving stories, formats, and memories. Our tableau reflects this journey from analogue to digital — from VHS and DVDs to multiple OTT platforms,” he said.

Rajat Agrawal, COO & Director of the Group, highlighted Ultra’s expanding digital footprint. “Today’s OTT audiences seek content that is rooted in culture, diversity, and authenticity. With Ultra Play, Ultra Jhakaas, Ultra Gaane, and our upcoming platforms, we are building a multi-language content universe that celebrates India’s film legacy while embracing today’s digital storytelling,” he said, adding that the tableau captured Ultra’s strength in honouring tradition while driving innovation.

Ultra’s float drew appreciation from delegates, filmmakers, and spectators alike for its seamless blend of nostalgia, artistry, and forward-thinking design. As the carnival parade set the tone for a week dedicated to global cinema, Ultra Media & Entertainment Group reaffirmed its position as a custodian of India’s rich film history and a key player shaping its digital future.