India Shines at Cannes 2024: The 77th edition of the Cannes Film Festival wrapped up on May 25, 2024, marking an unforgettable year for Indian cinema on the global stage. Indian filmmakers, actors, and cultural ambassadors made their presence felt, achieving remarkable milestones and showcasing the diverse and rich tapestry of Indian culture.
Payal Kapadia Clinches Grand Prix Award
Indian filmmaker Payal Kapadia created history by winning the Grand Prix for her feature directorial debut, All We Imagine As Light. This accolade is the second-most prestigious prize at Cannes after the Palme d’Or. Kapadia’s film is the first Indian movie in 30 years and the first ever by an Indian female director to be showcased in the main competition, cementing her place in the annals of Indian cinema history.
Anasuya Sengupta Wins Best Actress Award
Actor Anasuya Sengupta became the first Indian to win the Best Actress award at Cannes. She was honoured in the Un Certain Regard segment for her powerful performance in The Shameless, directed by Bulgarian filmmaker Constantin Bojanov. The film tells the gripping story of a woman who escapes a Delhi brothel after killing a policeman, highlighting Sengupta’s exceptional talent and expanding the horizons for Indian actors on the global stage.
Bharat Parva Celebration Reaches Cannes
Adding to the Indian flavor at Cannes, the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, led by Secretary Shri Sanjay Jaju, hosted the inaugural Bharat Parva. This celebration of Indian culture, cuisine, handicrafts, and cinema was organized by the NFDC in collaboration with FICCI. Bharat Parva brought the vibrant spirit of India to the French Riviera, enchanting festival attendees with its rich cultural display.
Restored Version of Shyam Benegal’s Manthan Showcased
The restored version of Shyam Benegal’s landmark film Manthan made a grand return to the spotlight at Cannes. This 1976 classic, which dramatizes India’s transformative milk cooperative movement, was showcased under the Cannes Classics segment. The screening received a five-minute standing ovation, attended by notable figures such as Naseeruddin Shah, Ratna Pathak Shah, Prateik Babbar, and Nirmala Kurien, daughter of Dr. Verghese Kurien, whose work inspired the film.
Santosh Sivan Receives Pierre Angénieux Tribute Award
Renowned cinematographer Santosh Sivan became the first Asian to receive the prestigious Pierre Angénieux Tribute award at Cannes. This honor recognizes his exceptional career and contributions to the art of cinematography. Actor Preity Zinta presented the award, celebrating Sivan’s influential work in the industry.
FTII Students’ Films Win Big
The students of the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII) made a significant mark at Cannes with their films. Sunflowers were the first ones to know, directed by Chidananda S Naik, won the La Cinef Award. The film, based on a Kannada folk tale, captivated the jury with its unique storytelling. Additionally, the animation film Bunnyhood, directed by Mansi Maheshwari, secured third place in the La Cinef section, further showcasing the talent and creativity emerging from India’s prestigious film school.
This year’s Cannes Film Festival not only highlighted the prowess of Indian filmmakers and actors but also celebrated India’s rich cultural heritage. As the festival drew to a close, it was evident that India had once again made an indelible mark on the global cinematic landscape.
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