Songs of Forgotten Trees was the only Indian selection in the prestigious Orizzonti Competition section at the 82nd Venice International Film Festival.
Indian filmmaker Anuparna Roy has etched her name in cinematic history. At the 82nd Venice Film Festival, she became the first Indian director to win Best Director in the prestigious Orizzonti section. Her debut feature, 'Songs of Forgotten Trees', beat 18 competitors to claim the honor.
A Moment That Felt Surreal
French filmmaker Julia Ducournau, known for Raw and Titane, chaired the Orizzonti jury and announced Roy’s win. Draped in a white saree, the Purulia-born director walked to the stage with visible emotion. She described the recognition as “surreal.”
Inspiration From Bengal Roots
Roy’s award-winning film draws inspiration from her childhood friend in Monpura, a small village in Bengal. The film tells the story of two women whose lives intertwine in Mumbai. Starring Naaz Shaikh and Sumi Baghel, it resonated deeply with audiences and critics in Venice.
Anuparna Roy— The First Indian To Win The Award
Unaware she was creating history, Roy expressed gratitude to her 80-year-old gaffer, Debjit Banerjee, during her speech. She also used the moment to shed light on the plight of children in Palestine. “It is a global crisis where justice and peace are being destroyed,” she said. “I had the microphone and couldn’t stay silent.”
Dedication To Women Everywhere
Roy dedicated her victory to women worldwide. “This film is a tribute to every woman silenced, overlooked, or underestimated,” she declared. “May this win inspire more voices, more stories, and more power for women in cinema and beyond.”
Producers Celebrate The Struggle Behind The Film
The film’s three producers—Bibhanshu Rai, Romil Modi, and Ranjan Singh—shared their pride in the achievement. Rai recalled the struggles of making the film. “It was never easy. There were tough days and doubts. But Anuparna’s fire kept us going,” he said.
Modi stressed the importance of backing women filmmakers. “Supporting voices like Anuparna’s isn’t just a choice, but a responsibility. Their stories have honesty and heart. They are far more compelling than the endless war-driven narratives we often see,” they said.
Singh added that Roy stayed true to her original vision. “From her first pitch, she never wavered. This win proves that authentic stories always resonate globally.”
Roy Creates a Landmark for Indian Cinema
“Songs of Forgotten Trees” was the only Indian film chosen for the Orizzonti section this year. Its victory marks a landmark moment for Indian cinema on the world stage. For Roy, the award is more than recognition—it is a statement of resilience, courage, and the power of storytelling.
