Filmmaker Payal Kapadia has scripted history by becoming the first Indian filmmaker to win the Grand Prix award at the Cannes Film Festival for her film “All We Imagine as Light.” The film bagged this prestigious award, which is the second-most coveted prize of the festival after the Palme d’Or. The Grand Prix was presented during the closing ceremony of the 77th edition of the Cannes Film Festival.
A Landmark Achievement for Payal Kapadia
“All We Imagine as Light” is a spellbinding drama that captivated audiences and critics alike. Payal Kapadia’s movie, which screened on May 23, is the first Indian film in 30 years to be showcased in the festival’s main competition. It also marks a significant milestone as the first-ever film by an Indian female director to compete at Cannes.
The last Indian movie to be selected for the main competition was Shaji N Karun’s 1994 movie “Swaham.” Payal Kapadia’s achievement underscores the growing recognition of Indian cinema on the global stage.
A Tale of Friendship and Empathy
The film revolves around three central characters: Prabha, a nurse; Anu, her younger roommate; and the mystical forest that becomes a space for their dreams to manifest. Prabha receives an unexpected gift from her long-estranged husband, throwing her life into disarray. Meanwhile, Anu struggles to find a private spot in the bustling city to be alone with her boyfriend. Through their experiences, the film explores themes of friendship, solidarity, inclusivity, and empathy.
In her acceptance speech, Payal Kapadia expressed gratitude to the Cannes Film Festival for showcasing their film. She emphasized the importance of friendship and the need to break down barriers that often pit women against each other. Kapadia was accompanied on stage by the three leading ladies of the film: Kani Kusruti, Divya Prabha, and Chhaya Kadam.
Acknowledging the Festival Workers
Kapadia also used the platform to acknowledge the festival workers who had protested at the opening night gala, demanding better wages and recognition. Her heartfelt words resonated with the audience, highlighting the importance of fair treatment and appreciation for everyone involved in the filmmaking.
“All We Imagine as Light,” a Malayalam-Hindi feature, beautifully weaves together personal stories against the backdrop of a mystical forest.
Congratulations to Payal Kapadia and her team for this remarkable achievement! 🎬🌟
