Anuparna Roy, a debutant filmmaker from rural Bengal, has recently made history at the 82nd Venice Film Festival by winning Best Director in the Orizzonti section for her film, 'Songs of Forgotten Trees'. This marked the first time an Indian filmmaker has received this honor. Roy's victory came decades after Satyajit Ray's Golden Lion win in 1957.

'Songs of Forgotten Trees' tells the story of two migrant women in Mumbai. Roy's win is especially significant considering the film was the only Indian entry in the Orizzonti category, which focuses on new and indie films.

In her acceptance speech, Roy dedicated her win to the children of Gaza, advocating for peace and liberation. "Every child deserves peace, freedom and liberation, and Palestine is no exception," she stated. This bold statement, however, drew mixed reactions online. Roy responded to the criticism by saying, "I think I love India far more than those commenting online". She emphasized that as a global citizen with a platform, she felt compelled to speak out against injustice, even if it meant upsetting some.

Roy's journey to the Venice Film Festival wasn't without its challenges. Growing up in rural Bengal, she faced initial skepticism from her parents regarding her career choice. She also drew inspiration from personal experiences, including a lost childhood friendship due to child marriage. Anurag Kashyap's support was key to her journey.

Meanwhile, Payal Kapadia continues to garner recognition for her work. Kapadia's film 'All We Imagine as Light' has also captured the attention of global audiences. The film revolves around the friendship between two nurses in Mumbai, whose lives take unexpected turns. Kapadia's unique storytelling توان has earned her nominations for the Golden Globe Award for Best Director and the BAFTA Award for Best Film Not in the English Language. In 2024, she won the Grand Prix at the 77th Cannes Film Festival for 'All We Imagine as Light'. Kapadia was also invited to serve as a jury member at the 78th Cannes Film Festival in 2025.

Kapadia's film does for Mumbai what Wong Kar-wai did for Hong Kong, capturing the city's chaotic energy and the stillness of its rain-soaked nights. The film explores themes of love, longing, and societal constraints, particularly the challenges faced by a Hindu woman in a relationship with a Muslim man.