IGNCAs film 'Looking for Challan' bags National Film Award National Award Filmmaker Bappa Ray receiving the National Award. Photo Courtesy: IGNCA

IGNCAs film 'Looking for Challan' bags National Film Award

by Trans World Features | @twfindia 17 Oct 2023, 09:08 pm

New Delhi: 'Looking for Challan', a poignant film produced by the Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA) and directed by  Bappa Ray, clinched the coveted National Award  in the 'Best Investigative Film' category.

Dr. Sachchidanand Joshi, Member Secretary of IGNCA, along with Bappa Ray, received the award from President Droupadi Murmu at a ceremony at Vigyan Bhavan.

This recognition of 'Looking for Challan' as the ‘Best Investigative Film’ this year serves as a testament to the team's unwavering dedication and collaborative spirit, said IGNCA in a release.

The film was honoured with the prestigious 'Rajat Kamal' (Certificate of Excellence) and a cash prize of Rs. 50,000.

'Looking for Challan'  delves into the enchanting world of Kerala's Nilambur forest culture and heritage. It draws its essence and intended message from the profound cultural richness of Kerala's forest regions, while also shedding light on the untold narratives of the Cholanaikkan community.

Bappa Ray said the film's journey has been nothing short of an honour. He said he firmly believes that this esteemed recognition will further ignite their passion to unravel more undiscovered stories.

'Looking for Challan' serves as a powerful testimony to the capacity of storytelling to bridge gaps, celebrate culture, and evoke transformation.