In an unprecedented and momentous event, Anasuya Sengupta became the first Indian actor to win the prestigious Best Actress award at the Cannes Film Festival.
This historic achievement was her extraordinary performance in “Shameless”, a gripping film that took part in the Un Sure Regard section of the 77th edition of the festival.
“This is a dedication to the queer community around the world and all other marginalized communities around the world for bravely fighting a fight they shouldn’t have to fight,” Anasuya passionately announced after receiving the award.
“More female perspectives are the way forward, and the browner the better,” she added.
The 77th Cannes Film Festival was a significant event for India.
Apart from Anasuya’s breakthrough win, Shyam Benegal’s classic film ‘Manthan’ had a special screening to mark the almost 48th anniversary of its original release.
A dazzling array of Indian celebrities and influential personalities also graced the red carpet during the festival.
This year, Indian films and actors won multiple nominations in various categories, highlighting India’s growing influence on world cinema.
Anasuya Sengupta from Kolkata played the extraordinary role of Renuka in “Shameless”, directed by Bulgarian director Konstantin Bojanov.
The film narrates the harrowing yet uplifting journey of Renuka as she escapes from a brothel in Delhi after killing a police officer.
The narrative also explores her intricate relationship with her loved one, played by Omara Shetty.
In addition to India’s triumph at Cannes in 2024, two Indian films have won top honors at La Cinef.
The first place went to a miniature film in Kannada called “Sunflowers Were the First” directed by Chidananda Naik, a student of the Indian Film and Television Institute.
Third place was taken by “Bunnyhood”, directed by Mansi Maheshwari from Meerut, Uttar Pradesh, who is currently studying in the UK.
The conclusion of the 77th Cannes Film Festival on May 25 was a milestone for Indian cinema on the global stage. (OR)
