India, Feb. 27 -- Wednesday evening blended cinema's magic with Delhi's timeless charm as the curtain-raiser for the International Film Festival Delhi (IFFD) 2026 unfolded in style. Several dignitaries from the world of cinema and politics came together to attend the occasion. Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, addressed the gathering, saying that she hopes to catch a few screenings when the festival begins on March 25. "I love watching films and there was hardly any I missed before becoming the CM... Hum Delhi ko creative capital banana chahte hain, jahan concert economy, orange economy ke saath humara yuva chale aur Delhi ko aage badhaye," she added. Festival director and filmmaker Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra reflected on his bond with the city, saying Delhi has always been "the third" character in his films, such as Delhi 6 (2009) and Rang De Basanti (2006). He hopes the festival deepens that connection. Delhi's Minister of Tourism, Art & Culture, Kapil Mishra said,"Ye film festival keval Bharat Mandapam ya theatres mein limited nahi rahega. Open screen laga ke bastiyo mein screening hogi." Actor Arjun Kapoor, also present at the event, shared, "I have done almost 20 films and more than half of them have been shot here. Delhi is an integral part of my career." Echoing the sentiment, actor Nimrat Kaur said, "I am a product of this city. I finished my college here; it is such a matter of honour to be here, and I feel grateful."...