India Is Proud Of You: PM Congratulates Payal Kapadia for Cannes Win
26.05.2024: Filmmaker Payal Kapadia has made history with her film “All We Imagine As Light,” winning the prestigious Grand Prix at the 2024 Cannes Film Festival. While the top honor, the Palme d’Or, went to Sean Baker’s comedy-drama “Anora,” Kapadia’s achievement marks a significant milestone for Indian cinema.
PM Modi’s Heartfelt Congratulations
Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised Kapadia, saying, “India is proud of Payal Kapadia for her historic feat of winning the Grand Prix at the 77th Cannes Film Festival for her work ‘All We Imagine as Light’. An alumnus of FTII, her remarkable talent continues to shine on the global stage, giving a glimpse of the rich creativity in India.” He added that this prestigious accolade not only honors her exceptional skills but also inspires a new generation of Indian filmmakers. PM Modi shared his congratulations on X (formerly Twitter).
Government and Political Leaders Applaud
Union Broadcasting Minister Anurag Thakur also celebrated the win, noting, “Many congratulations to FTII alumnus Payal Kapadia for winning the Grand Prix at the 77th Cannes Film Festival for her film All We Imagine as Light. This makes it the first Grand Prix win for the country and a nomination in the Palme d’Or after 30 years.” He further highlighted the success of India’s creative economy, with three films winning awards at Cannes this year.
Congress leader Rahul Gandhi joined in, expressing his pride: “Indian stars shining bright at the 77th Cannes Film Festival! Congratulations to Payal Kapadia and the entire team of ‘All We Imagine As Light’ for clinching the prestigious Grand Prix award.” He also commended Anasuya Sengupta for winning the Best Actress award under the Un Certain Regard section for her performance in “The Shameless.”
Critical Acclaim for “All We Imagine As Light”
Kapadia’s directorial debut has garnered positive reviews and made history as the first Indian film in 30 years, and the first by an Indian female director, to be showcased in the main competition at Cannes. An alumna of the Film & Television Institute of India (FTII), Kapadia is also known for her acclaimed documentary “A Night of Knowing Nothing,” which won the Oeil d’or (Golden Eye) award at the 2021 Cannes Film Festival’s Director’s Fortnight.
Celebrations from the Indian Film Industry
Indian cinema luminaries have showered Kapadia with praise. Actor Mohanlal called it “a momentous occasion for Indian Cinema as Payal Kapadia, Kani Kusruthi, Divya Prabha, Chhaya Kadam, and the talented team behind ‘All We Imagine as Light’ bask in glory!”
Actor Mammootty added, “Making Indian Cinema Proud. What an amazing achievement. Congrats to Payal Kapadia, Kani Kusruthi, Divya Prabha, Chhaya Kadam and the entire team of All We Imagine as Light.”
Film director, lyricist, and writer Varun Grover expressed his admiration: “Unbelievable day for Indian cinema. An independent filmmaker – from much-hated FTII – whose first film was a poetic love letter to the idea of dissent in a democracy, wins the second highest honor at the biggest film festival in the world. Payal Kapadia’s ‘All We Imagine As Light’ wins Grand Prix. Magical to see four Indian women on stage at Cannes.”
Kapadia’s achievement not only represents a personal triumph but also signifies a moment of pride and inspiration for the entire Indian film industry.