Namaste Seekers,
It is with a heart full of gratitude that I write to
you about the successful conclusion of the 6th Indic Film Utsav in
Dallas. From November 7th to 9th, 2025, we embarked on a unique journey at the
Galaxy Theater at Grandscape our first 100% theatrical cinema event—and the
energy was truly compelling.
The theme of Positive Cinema is more than just a
category for us; it is the very soul of this movement. We set out to find
stories that uplift, enlighten, and celebrate the human spirit, and the
response from the global filmmaking community and our audience has affirmed
that this hunger for meaningful cinema is stronger than ever.
The Power of Storytelling
Indic Film Utsav is, at its core, a celebration of the
enduring Indic spirit of storytelling that weaves stories rooted in
universal creativity, courage, and compassion. To see these narratives resonate
so powerfully across three incredible days was deeply moving for me and the
entire team.
I want to personally congratulate every filmmaker who shared
their vision with us. Your dedication to cinema that affirms life and human
dignity is what makes this festival a true beacon.
The Esteemed Jury Board
We extend our sincere thanks to the brilliant minds who
served on our Jury Board, providing their invaluable creative and curatorial
perspective:
- Gowri
Sharma: Chair of the Dallas Museum of Art, bringing a strong visual
arts perspective.
- Raj
Rachakonda: Dallas-based filmmaker known for socially rooted themes.
- Kshitiz
Rai: Co-founder of Prachyam, a storytelling collective blending art,
film, and technology.
A Salute to Our Jury Award Winners
And about the awards - These films embody the excellence
we champion:
- Best
Feature Film: Jaar, directed by Phurba Tshering Lama
- Best
Documentary: Caste Gate – The Untold Story, directed by Vikram
Mishra
- Best
Short Film: Bhamakalapam, directed by Likhitha Krishna
- Best
Ultrashort Film: Geetha, directed by Ashik Shaik
- Special
Jury Mention (Feature): 87 Rupees Ink Pen, directed by Ravi
Nimbalkar
The Voice of Our Audience
What warms my heart the most is seeing the films that
captured your imaginations. The Audience Choice Awards always
reflect a beautiful connection between a film and the person watching it.
- Best
Feature: Ahana – The Light Within, directed by Promita Bhowmik
- Best
Documentary: Devi – A Woven History, directed by Manas Holkar
- Best
Short: Cowboys and Hindus, directed by Tejal Desai
- Best
Ultrashort: Gratitude, directed by Ram Komanduri
It was a joy to open the festival with the compelling American
Warrior, with its lead actor, Vish Ayyar, connecting with attendees
throughout the weekend. And to conclude with 6A Akash Ganga, followed by
a stimulating Q&A with its director, Nirmal Chander, provided the perfect
cinematic closing note.
The Indic Film Utsav is not just an annual event; it
is a continuously flowing stream of cultural continuity and creative courage.
Over the past five years, we have proudly showcased 300 Indic-themed films,
and with the success of this 6th edition, I feel immense optimism for what lies
ahead.
Thank you for being part of this movement. Your support,
your attendance, and your passion for meaningful cinema fuel everything we do.
Until our paths cross again, keep seeking the light in every
story.
Warmly,
Danji Thotapalli
Festival Director, Indic Film Utsav
Center for Indic Films, INDICA
PS: From festival to festival, we celebrate the Indian
Civilisation in its myriad manifestations from Cinema to literature to
philosophy and Yoga. I urge you to check out the Mysuru Yoga Utsava the third edition
of which is taking shape under my esteemed colleague Vinayachandra B from
Centre For Yoga Studies, INDICA.
