With a record-breaking 840 submissions, the 18th edition of the Mumbai International Film Festival – MIFF has 77 films contesting in the national competition. A remarkable 30 films by debutant directors and 12 student works have found their place amongst the contestants.
Best Indian Documentary Film will receive a Silver Conch and a cash prize of Rs. 5 lakh. Best Indian Short Fiction Film, up to 30 minutes, will receive a Silver Conch and a cash prize of Rs. 3 lakh.
The best Indian Animation Film will receive a Silver Conch and a cash prize of Rs. 3 lakh, whereas, the best Debut Film will receive a trophy and a cash prize of Rs. 1 lakh. Best Student Film will also receive a trophy and a cash prize of Rs. 1 lakh.
A special category for the Best Short Film on “India in Amrit Kaal”, up to 15 minutes, is open to Indian filmmakers only and this award will come with a trophy and a cash prize of Rs. 1 lakh.
The jury members for the national competition this year include German film producer Adele Seelman (Das Weibe Rauschen, Alles auf die Siebzehn) Filmmaker Dr. Bobby Sarma Baruah (Mishing, Sonar Baran Pakhi), animator Munjal Shroff (Krish, Trish and Baltiboy) Film Producer Apoorva Bakshi (Delhi Crime) and German filmmaker Anna Henckel-Donnersmarck.
