The 77th Cannes Film Festival, held in France, is making headlines worldwide. This glamorous event has seen attendance from numerous celebrities across the globe, including many from the Indian entertainment industry. Among the notable Indian figures gracing the red carpet were Aishwarya Rai, Urvashi Rautela, Aditi Rao Hydari, and the much-discussed Nancy Tyagi. Alongside the star-studded appearances, India has also made a significant mark in the festival’s competitive categories. The Film and Television Institute of India (FTII) has garnered an award for a short film, showcasing India’s cinematic talent on the international stage.
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Cannes 2024: Award-Winning Short Film: ‘Sunflowers Were the First Ones to Know’
In an impressive feat, the short film ‘Sunflowers Were the First Ones to Know’ by Mysore filmmaker Chidanand S. Naik won the La Cinéfondation First Prize at Cannes. Naik, who studied for a year in the TV wing of FTII, Pune, crafted this film based on a Kannada folk tale. The story centers around an old woman who steals chickens, and the repercussions of her actions fall upon her son, who faces ostracism in their village. This 16-minute short film encapsulates a poignant narrative, blending cultural folklore with cinematic storytelling.
Cannes 2024 : A Remarkable Achievement Among Global Submissions
Chidanand S. Naik’s ‘Sunflowers Were the First Ones to Know’ stood out among a competitive selection. The film surpassed 17 other shortlisted films to clinch the top prize. These 18 films were chosen from a staggering 2,263 submissions from 555 film schools worldwide. Winning the La Cinéfondation First Prize is a testament to Naik’s storytelling prowess and the quality of education and mentorship provided by FTII.
Prize and Recognition
The La Cinéfondation First Prize not only brings international recognition but also comes with a monetary award of 15,000 euros. The second and third prizes in this category are awarded 11,250 euros and 7,500 euros respectively. This accolade places Chidanand S. Naik and his film in the spotlight, highlighting the global reach and impact of Indian cinema.
India’s Continued Success at Cannes
This win marks the second time India has received this prestigious award. Prior to Chidanand S. Naik’s victory, Ashmita Guha Neogi’s film “Catdog,” also produced during her studies at FTII, won the La Cinéfondation First Prize in 2020. Naik’s achievement further underscores the consistent excellence of Indian filmmakers and the influential role of FTII in nurturing cinematic talent.
