“Parjya” Wins Golden Kailasa Award at 11th Ajanta–Ellora International Film Festival

Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar | The 11th Ajanta–Ellora International Film Festival (AEIFF), known for bringing the finest global cinema to Marathi audiences, concluded on a grand note in the presence of eminent personalities from the film and academic world. The prestigious Golden Kailasa Award for Best Indian Feature Film was conferred upon Parjya, directed by Mahadev Hadpad.

The closing ceremony was attended by noted filmmaker Anand L. Rai, Oscar-winning sound designer Padma Shri Resul Pookutty, MGM University Chancellor Ankushrao Kadam, Organising Committee Chairman Nandkishor Kagliwal, Vice-Chancellor Dr. Vilas Sapkal, Festival Director Sunil Sukthankar, Executive Director Chandrakant Kulkarni, and several other dignitaries.

Addressing the gathering, Anand L. Rai said that true living lies in doing what one loves, adding that both success and failure are learning experiences. Chancellor Ankushrao Kadam highlighted the growing national recognition of the festival and its contribution beyond entertainment, enriching social and educational understanding.

Organising Committee Chairman Nandkishor Kagliwal stated that films from across the globe were showcased and announced that the “Golden Shalivahan” award for Marathi cinema will be introduced from next year. The MGM Inspire newsletter prepared by MGM Journalism students was also released during the ceremony.

Award Winners – Indian Film Competition:

• Golden Kailasa Award (Best Indian Film): Parjya – Director: Mahadev Hadpad

• Silver Kailasa Award (Best Actor): Prajwal Kollal – Parjya

• Silver Kailasa Award (Best Actress): Naz Sheikh – Songs of Forgotten Trees

• Silver Kailasa Award (Best Screenplay): Anuprarna Roy – Songs of Forgotten Trees

• Special Jury Mention (Film): Magazine – Director: Shubham Sanjay Shewade

• Special Jury Mention (Film): Secret of a Mountain Serpent – Director: Nidhi Saxena

Additional awards were also presented in the Marathwada Short Film Competition, MGM Short Film Competition, FIPRESCI India Award and Audience Choice category, marking a successful and vibrant edition of the festival.