Anuparna Roy made history by becoming the first Indian to win Best Director for her debut ‘Songs of Forgotten Trees’ at the 82nd Venice Film Festival!
The 82nd edition of Venice Film Festival, one of the world’s most prestigious cinematic showcases, managed to make headlines yet again by concluding on Saturday with an awards ceremony with a never-before-seen winners list. Anuparna Roy from India created history by winning the Best Director award in the Orizzonti section for her debut feature, ‘Songs of Forgotten Trees’. It is historic because she is the first Indian to achieve this, successfully bringing International attention to the rich tapestry of Indian cinema.
‘Songs of Forgotten Trees’ was the only entry from India in the Orizzonti section this year, starring Naaz Shaikh and Sumi Baghel. It explored the intertwined lives of two women living in Mumbai. Produced by Bibanshu Rai, Romil Modi, and Ranjan Singh, the film received widespread recognition for its storytelling and direction.
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While receiving the award from the critically acclaimed Indian director Anurag Kashyap, Anuparna Roy said,“This film is a tribute to every woman who’s ever been silenced, overlooked, or underestimated. May this win inspire more voices, more stories, and more power for women in cinema and beyond.”
Key Winners – Orizzonti Section:
Best Film: En El Camino by David Pablos (México)
Best Director: Anuparna Roy for Songs of Forgotten Trees (India)
Special Jury Prize: Lost Land by Akio Fujimoto (Japan)
Best Actor: Giacomo Covi for A Year of School (Italy)
Best Actress: Benedetta Porcaroli for The Kidnapping of Arabella (Italy)
