First Indian Filmmaker to Win Grand Prix at Cannes

Filmmaker Payal Kapadia created history by becoming the first Indian director to win the prestigious Grand Prix award at the Cannes Film Festival for her film All We Imagine as Light. This monumental achievement marks the first time in 30 years that an Indian film has competed in the main competition at Cannes, with the last being Shaji Karun’s Swaham in 1994.

Breaking New Ground for Indian Cinema

Kapadia’s win is a significant milestone for Indian cinema, showcasing the potential of international co-productions. All We Imagine as Light stood out at Cannes, earning a thunderous eight-minute standing ovation and glowing reviews from international critics.

Other Indian Achievements at Cannes

• Anusuya Sengupta won Best Actress for The Shameless in the Un Certain Regard section.
• Chidananda Naik’s short film Sunflowers Were the First to Know won first prize.
• Manasi Maheshwari’s Bunnyhood won third prize in the La Cinef section.

All these filmmakers are alumni of the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII), highlighting the institute’s contribution to Indian cinema despite its controversies.

Film’s Universal Appeal

All We Imagine as Light is set in Mumbai and features Kani Kusruti and Divya Prabha as two nurses from Kerala. The film captures the essence of Mumbai’s monsoon, local trains, and the struggles of its inhabitants. The universal themes of friendship, solidarity, and resilience resonated with audiences and critics alike.

International Praise

• BBC: “Will this ‘magical’ ode to nocturnal Mumbai win the Palme d’Or?”
• The Guardian: “Dreamlike and gentle modern Mumbai tale is a triumph.”
• Variety: “A glowing portrait of urban connection and unexpected sisterhood.”

Payal Kapadia’s Vision and Message

Kapadia’s film emphasizes the importance of friendship and solidarity among women. In her acceptance speech, she highlighted how societal norms often pit women against each other, but through friendship, greater inclusivity and empathy can be achieved.

Challenges and Triumphs

Kapadia’s journey wasn’t without challenges. Despite her historic win, she faces legal issues back home due to her involvement in student protests at FTII. However, her victory at Cannes is a testament to the power of art and perseverance.

Admiration for Malayalam Cinema

In a press meet, Kapadia expressed her admiration for the Malayalam film industry, praising its range and the openness of its audience to different kinds of films. She also highlighted the distribution opportunities for art films in Kerala and lauded the International Film Festival of Kerala (IFFK) as one of the best in the country.

Support for Female Filmmakers

Kapadia acknowledged the support from the Kerala government for female filmmakers and those from underrepresented castes, noting the positive direction of the industry.

Conclusion

Payal Kapadia’s triumph at Cannes with All We Imagine as Light is a proud moment for Indian cinema. Her win not only breaks new ground but also shines a spotlight on the immense potential of Indian filmmakers on the global stage.