Indian cinema shines brightly on the global stage as All We Imagine As Light, directed by Payal Kapadia, wins the prestigious Grand Prix award at the 77th Cannes Film Festival. This award, the second-most coveted after the Palme d’Or, marks a historic moment as it is the first time an Indian film has won the Grand Prix at Cannes.
Starring Kani Kusruti, Divya Prabha, Chhaya Kadam, and Hridhu Haroon, the film delves into the lives of two nurses from Kerala working in Mumbai. The story beautifully explores themes of loneliness and connection, highlighting the challenges and bonds formed in the bustling city.
All We Imagine As Light premiered in the competition section on May 23, 2024, making it the first Indian film to feature in this prestigious segment in 30 years. The last Indian film to achieve this was Shaji N. Karun’s Swaham in 1994.
This is not Payal Kapadia’s first recognition at Cannes. She has previously participated with her short film Afternoon Clouds in 2017 and won the Oeil d’Or for Best Documentary in 2021 for A Night of Knowing Nothing. Her latest win solidifies her position as a remarkable filmmaker on the international stage.
The 77th Cannes Film Festival has been significant for India, with Shyam Benegal’s Manthan receiving a special screening and Anasuya Sengupta winning the Un Certain Regard Prize for Best Actress for her performance in The Shameless.
Other notable winners at Cannes 2024 include:
Palme d’Or: Anora
Best Director: Miguel Gomes for Grand Tour
Best Actor: Jesse Plemons for Kinds of Kindness
Best Actress: The Ensemble of Emilia Pérez
Jury Prize: Emilia Pérez
Congratulations to Payal Kapadia and the entire team of All We Imagine As Light for this incredible achievement, marking a proud moment for Indian cinema on the global stage!
