Indian Filmmaker Achieves Landmark Victory at Cannes Film Festival

Filmmaker Payal Kapadia achieved a historic milestone on Saturday by becoming the first individual from India to win the esteemed Grand Prix at the 77th Cannes Film Festival. This award is considered the second highest prize at the festival, following the Palme d’Or.

Kapadia’s film, titled “All We Imagine As Light”, tells the story of two Malayali nurses who have relocated to the picturesque city of Mumbai. The film explores themes of life, love, and sisterhood as the characters navigate their experiences in the bustling city.

The first Indian movie in thirty years to compete in Cannes' main competition is making history.

Kapadia expressed her disbelief and gratitude during her acceptance speech at Cannes, where she faced the jury consisting of director Greta Gerwig and actor Lily Gladstone.

“Please don’t wait another 30 years to have an Indian film,” she said to the audience.

CANNES, FRANCE - MAY 23: Bella Hadid attends the "L'Amour Ouf" (Beating Hearts) Red Carpet at the 77th annual Cannes Film Festival at Palais des Festivals on May 23, 2024 in Cannes, France. (Photo by Ernesto Ruscio/Getty Images)

Bella Hadid was spotted at the "L'Amour Ouf" (Beating Hearts) Red Carpet event during the 77th annual Cannes Film Festival in Cannes, France on May 23, 2024.

The photo was captured by Ernesto Ruscio and featured Bella Hadid looking stunning at the Palais des Festivals.

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The win has been celebrated nationwide, with numerous people on social media, including prominent politicians, commenting on its importance.

India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his pride in Kapadia's historic achievement on X.

Her exceptional talent continues to shine brightly on the global stage, showcasing the rich creativity of India. This prestigious award not only recognizes her outstanding skills but also motivates a new wave of Indian filmmakers.

Rahul Gandhi, a prominent figure in India's main opposition party, the Indian National Congress, extended his congratulations to the director. Anasuya Sengupta, the first Indian actress to win Best Actress for her role in "The Shameless" in the festival's Un Certain Regard section, was also acknowledged for her achievement.

“Indian stars shining bright… These women have scripted history, and inspired the entire Indian film fraternity,” he wrote on the platform.

Kani Kusruti, Chhaya Kadam, Payal Kapadia and Divya Prabha pose with the Grand Prix award for "All We Imagine As Light" during the festival's closing ceremony.

Kani Kusruti, Chhaya Kadam, Payal Kapadia and Divya Prabha pose with the Grand Prix award for "All We Imagine As Light" during the festival's closing ceremony.

Stephane Cardinale/Corbis/Getty Images

Sooni Taraporevala, a screenwriter on the award-winning film "Salaam Bombay!" from 1988, expressed to CNN her thoughts on Kapadia's historic win at the Cannes Film Festival. She described the win as "unprecedented" and mentioned how it has personally touched women and those in the indie film community.

She further shared that Kapadia's win has given them a sense of hope and inspiration, allowing them to dream and celebrate with pride and joy. Taraporevala also highlighted the challenges faced by India's independent film scene, feeling at times "hopeless" in an industry overwhelmingly dominated by mainstream productions.

“All We Imagine As Light” received an eight-minute standing ovation when it premiered during the festival.

A man walks past a mural portraying Bollywood Indian actresses Asha Parekh and Helen, in Mumbai, India, on April 17, 2024.

A man walks past a mural portraying Bollywood Indian actresses Asha Parekh and Helen, in Mumbai, India, on April 17, 2024.

Noemi Cassanelli/CNN

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Some people have praised the film for portraying the love story between Prabha and her Muslim boyfriend as daring, especially in a country where religious divisions are growing.

India holds the title for being the top film producer globally, yet falls short compared to Hollywood in creating films that achieve global acclaim and win prestigious awards.

Last year, the Telegu-language historical fantasy film "RRR" made history by winning an Oscar for best original song. The song "Naatu Naatu" received acclaim for its catchy beat and lively dance choreography.

Another Indian film, "The Elephant Whisperers," directed by Kartiki Gonsalves, also won an Oscar for best documentary short at the same ceremony.

In 1947, filmmaker Chetan Anand made history by winning the top prize at Cannes for his film “Neecha Nagar,” making him the only Indian to achieve this honor.

Following in Anand's footsteps, Kapadia also made a mark at the festival by winning the L’Oeil d’Or award in 2021 for her documentary “A Night of Knowing Nothing.” The film explores the challenges faced by a film student in India as she navigates a relationship with her ex from a different caste.

Editor's P/S:

Filmmaker Payal Kapadia's historic win at the Cannes Film Festival is a testament to the growing recognition of Indian cinema on the global stage. Her film, "All We Imagine As Light," not only captures the essence of Indian culture but also explores universal themes of love, life, and sisterhood, resonating with audiences worldwide. Kapadia's achievement is a proud moment for India, showcasing the country's rich cinematic heritage and inspiring a new generation of filmmakers.

The article highlights the challenges faced by independent filmmakers in India, where mainstream productions often dominate the industry. Kapadia's win is seen as a beacon of hope, proving that unique and thought-provoking films can find success and recognition. Her message to the Cannes audience, urging them not to wait another 30 years to feature an Indian film, underscores the need for increased representation and diversity in international film festivals.