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Anuparna Roy Wins Venice Orizzonti Best Director for Debut 'Songs of Forgotten Trees'

Her remark in support of Palestinian children drew online blowback in India, prompting public backing from her parents as well as West Bengal officials.

Overview

  • Roy became the first Indian to claim the Orizzonti Best Director prize at the 82nd Venice Film Festival for Songs of Forgotten Trees.
  • The Mumbai-set drama, presented by Anurag Kashyap and starring Naaz Shaikh and Sumi Baghel, follows two migrant women forging a bond.
  • Jury head Julia Ducournau announced the award, with the film standing as the only Indian selection competing in the Orizzonti section this year.
  • In her acceptance speech, Roy dedicated the honor to women worldwide and voiced solidarity with Palestinian children, saying every child deserves peace and freedom.
  • West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and Governor C. V. Ananda Bose issued congratulations, while Roy’s parents defended her comments after social-media criticism at home.