Panaji: The 55th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) is once again setting benchmarks in celebrating cinematic innovation by recognizing the growing influence of OTT platforms. With its Best Web Series (OTT) Award, introduced in the 54th edition, IFFI continues to honor storytelling excellence in the digital realm.
Record Surge in Submissions
This year, the award has witnessed a 40% increase in submissions from 10 major OTT platforms, underscoring the expanding role of web-based content in India’s entertainment landscape. Five standout series have been shortlisted for their exceptional storytelling, cultural resonance, and technical mastery:
- Kota Factory (Netflix): A poignant slice-of-life drama capturing the high-pressure academic environment of Kota, Rajasthan, through the lens of young students navigating aspirations and challenges.
- Creator: Saurabh Khanna
- Kala Pani (Netflix): A gripping survival drama set against the scenic backdrop of the Andaman Islands, intertwining themes of family, history, and personal discovery.
- Creators: Sameer Saxena & Amit Golani
- Lampan (Sony Liv): A heartfelt narrative exploring the emotional and social struggles of a young girl in rural India, highlighting themes of community and self-empowerment.
- Creator: Nipun Dharmadhikari
- Ayali (Zee5): A socially conscious drama portraying the struggles of women in conservative societies as they balance tradition, societal norms, and personal freedom.
- Creator: Muthukumar
- Jubilee (Amazon Prime Video): A period drama set in post-independence India, paying homage to the golden age of Indian cinema while delving into the dreams and struggles of filmmakers and stars.
- Creator: Vikramaditya Motwane
Honoring Excellence in OTT
The winning series will receive:
- A cash prize of ₹10 lakhs
- Certificates for the Director, Creator, Producer, and associated OTT platform.
IFFI’s embrace of digital storytelling signifies its commitment to evolving with the entertainment industry. By fostering high-quality content creation, particularly in Indian languages, and encouraging collaboration among global creators, IFFI aims to position India as a leading hub for digital narratives.
The winner of the Best Web Series Award will be announced during the festival, reaffirming IFFI’s role as a champion of diverse cinematic expressions, bridging the worlds of traditional cinema and dynamic OTT content.