A Historic Moment for Indian Cinema

“Nauka haare lehron se nahi, koshish karne waale kabhi haare nahi…” – these inspiring lines today perfectly describe filmmaker Anuparna Roy, who has made India proud on the global stage. She has bagged the Best Director Award at the 82nd Venice Film Festival, becoming the first Indian ever to achieve this milestone.

Who is Anuparna Roy?

Hailing from Narayanpur, a small village in Purulia district, West Bengal, Anuparna’s journey is nothing short of extraordinary. She completed her graduation in British English Literature from Burdwan University and later worked in several corporate jobs in Delhi and Mumbai.

A Passion that Found its Way

Cinema was always in her heart. To follow her passion, she pursued a diploma in acting from Anupam Kher’s Actor Prepares Institute and attended multiple acting workshops in Mumbai. This exposure brought her closer to the world of filmmaking.

The First Step into Filmmaking

Her professional journey began as an assistant director with the short film Run to the River (2023), which earned international appreciation. This recognition boosted her confidence and pushed her to chase bigger dreams.

Songs of Forgotten Trees – Her Masterpiece

Taking complete charge of production and funding, Anuparna created her first feature film – Songs of Forgotten Trees. This project became the turning point of her career and showcased her strength as a director.

Best Director at Venice – A Proud Achievement

At the Venice Film Festival 2025, Anuparna Roy won the Best Director Award in the Orizzonti category for Songs of Forgotten Trees. With this, she has etched her name in history, becoming the first Indian filmmaker in 82 years to be honoured with this prestigious award.