Among the numerous congratulatory messages for Payal Kapadia, who received the second highest honor at the 77th Cannes Film Festival, a commendation from her alma mater, FTII, has attracted significant attention.
Payal Kapadia received the second-highest honor at the 77th Cannes Film Festival for “All We Imagine as Light”. Kapadia charted history at the gala as she became the first Indian filmmaker to win the Grand Prix award, on Saturday, PTI reported.
Numerous congratulatory messages poured in for her but a commendation from her alma mater, FTII, attracted significant attention.
The Film and Television Institute of India, in a post on X, formerly Twitter, said it is a moment of pride for the FTII as its alumni create history at Cannes and congratulated Kapadia for the award.
“It is a moment of pride for FTII as its Alumni create history at Cannes. As we witness a phenomenal year for Indian Cinema at the 77th Cannes Film Festival, FTII cherishes the glorious achievements of its Alumni at this Mega International Stage of Cinema,” the institute said in a post on X.
Payal Kapadia, 35 others, booked for unlawful activities
Ironically, Kapadia was on the warpath with the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII) in 2015.
She led a student protest against the appointment of actor-turned-politician Gajendra Chauhan, known for his role as Yudhisthir in the TV series “Mahabharat”, as chairman of the Pune-based premier institute.
The protesting students argued that Chauhan did not align with the vision and stature of previous FTII governing council chairmen, and his appointment seemed “politically influenced”.
During the 139-day strike, students allegedly confined then FTII Director Prashant Pathrabe in his office over academic issues, leading to police intervention and the arrest of several protesters.
Subsequently, 35 students, including Kapadia, were charged under various Indian Penal Code sections, including 143, 147, 149, 323, 353, and 506, for offences related to unlawful assembly, criminal intimidation, and rioting.
The chargesheet was filed in 2016, and the next court hearing is scheduled for June 26, according to the defence lawyer representing the students.
Oscar-winning Indian sound designer Resul Pookutty stated on social media that the mainstream Indian film industry had no role in this success and viewed them as “outcasts.” He added that their victory was not solely due to “inspiring teachers,” as there were only a few.
According to a report by PTI, he said, “Payal (Accused No.25) comes back from Cannes and next month, will have to go for her court case hearing that FTII lodged against her for striking against the appointment of Mr Chouhan as the Chairman! Interesting isn’t it?!”
Ameya Gore, one of the 35 students charged in the case, mentioned that after the incident, most students encountered difficulties with scholarships and obtaining passports.