Award Winners

The movie tackles universal topic of displacement and forced migration from the war inflicted countries. Through cleverly crafted narrative structure, the movie depicts transgenerational trauma of war refugees. The world of story is structured as a multilayered, spatial and temporal narrative, using evocative cinematic language, and transcending borders and time, offering a deeply human and empathetic perspective on survival, memory, and resilience.

The film is appreciated for its courageous and moving portrayal of resilience and intellectual freedom in the face of oppression. By weaving the autobiographical journey of a fearless teacher who defies state's restrictions, the film becomes a powerful testament to the power of literature and the spirit of education.

Through the lens of a non-conventional mother-daughter relationship story, fraught with tension and love, the film captures the profound complexities of generational divides, cultural expectations, and personal values. With powerful storytelling, it delves into the heart of human relationships, offering an honest and thought-provoking portrayal of conflicting perspectives on autonomy and dignity, highlighting female agency and women empowerment.

The film is appreciated for its blend of humour and social commentary, creating a poignant yet entertaining exploration of gender equality, cultural traditions, and personal empowerment, through the journey of its determinate protagonist, Fathima.

The film is appreciated for its compelling portrayal of the universal themes of loneliness, abandonment, and the enduring resilience of the human spirit, through the story an ageing couple. The film captures the intricate balance between despair and hope, as well as the deep emotional connection with the land.

The film explores the challenges of indigenous society and the looming repercussions of AI.

The film provides the experience of genre storytelling of troubled lives through captivating world building.

The film depicts the struggle of untouchables in society, in desolate social situation while redeeming hope through individual action.

The film explores the life of a subaltern woman, in a trying profession, struggling to make the world a better place through compassion.

Thie film manages to question both the traditions and the new technologies, putting in perspective, through the use of AI, identity issues in a new technological age that pretends to be neutral. It’s a very local story, and a very global one at the same time, a testament to the fact that a highly personal and grounded vision will always be, in some way, universal.

The film’s poetic storytelling and subtle narrative make it a deeply moving cinematic experience, celebrating the strength of the human spirit.

For tackling untouchability linked to menstruation, the film’s rich visuals and powerful message inspire awareness and social change.

For highlighting the struggles of ordinary people forced to surrender their dignity before an egoistic, powerful officer - until they rise, fight back, and reclaim their self-respect.

A modern film that portrays global issues such as child abduction, violence against women, and corruption within law enforcement shown with excellent performances and contemporary filmmaking.

For illuminating the screen with performances of rare depth and authenticity, for fearlessly embracing roles that challenge conventions, for the portrayals of complex, defiant women and for being an unwavering voice in gender discourse. This award is given in honor of the unparalleled contributions to cinema and the tireless advocacy for equality, justice, and human dignity.