Russian filmmakers won awards at the 15th Delhi International Film Festival

Three Russian films won prestigious awards at the 15th Delhi International Film Festival (DIFF), which took place in the capital city of India.

The Festival was held under the auspices of the Indian Ministry of Culture at the Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts from 4 to 8 May. The programme featured 178 films from more than 51 countries. Selection and awarding were held in the following key categories: world cinema – full-length films; Indian panorama; short films – feature and animation; documentaries – full-length and short; cinema without borders; student films, and environmental cinema.

The event brought together filmmakers from around the world to screen numerous independent films, including four Russian ones. Russian filmmakers whose films were presented in the World Cinema section were awarded at the Closing Ceremony of the International Film Festival.

“The Fog” (directed by Natalia Gugueva), a psychological thriller that won two awards: “Best Story” and “Best Female Director”. The film was shot in the extreme conditions of the Arctic tundra at the world’s oldest meteorological observing station, which has been operating for over 130 years. The film captivated the jury with its atmosphere.

“The Hunter” (directed by Zaur Tsogoev), a drama by the Ossetian Academy of Cinematography. It was named “Best Adventure Film” for its spectacular and dynamic plot. Following the screening, Indian filmmakers expressed interest, proposing a collaboration with the team.

“The Blind Man” (directed by Ilias Daudi) is a short dramatic film about the life of All-Russian State University of Cinematography student Georgy Abaev, produced by the University Educational Studio, and won the Special Jury Prize.

Pavel Sizov, Counselor of the Russian Embassy in India, received the statuettes on behalf of the authors who were unable to attend the Closing Ceremony in person.

Interaction between countries provides a solid foundation for mutual understanding between peoples and opens new opportunities for joint cultural projects. Russia and India continue to strengthen ties, enriching each other with unique heritage and creative experiences.

Photo by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation