Daijiworld Media Network- Mumbai
Mumbai, Jun 16: Renowned filmmaker Kiran Rao has added another international honour to her repertoire by being selected as a jury member for the prestigious Shanghai International Film Festival (SIFF). Currently underway in China from June 13 to June 22, the 27th edition of the SIFF is hosting over 400 films from 71 countries, celebrating cinematic brilliance on a global scale.
Kiran Rao, who arrived in style for the grand opening ceremony, turned heads in an elegant Payal Khandwala red saree paired with a crisp white blouse, statement earrings, and a bold silver bracelet, reflecting both grace and confidence.
Sharing her thoughts on being part of the distinguished jury, Kiran said, “It’s wonderful to be here in Shanghai, among filmmakers and talent from China and across the globe. I look forward to watching the selection of films in the International Competition section along with my fellow jurors, a lot of whom I admire deeply. As a filmmaker and storyteller, it's a joy to join a jury that values bold and original voices."
She further reflected on the deeper impact of cinema, stating, “This for me is a timely reminder of how powerful global cinema can be in building bridges and connecting us through stories.”
The international jury at SIFF is headed by Oscar-winning Italian filmmaker Giuseppe Tornatore, best known for his iconic film Cinema Paradiso. Other eminent jury members include Argentine director Iván Fund, celebrated Chinese actor-director Huang Bo, filmmaker Yang Lina, award-winning actress Yong Mei, and Greek producer Thanassis Karathanos.
The festival, a major cinematic event in Asia, serves as a platform for emerging voices and celebrated auteurs alike, underlining the unifying force of storytelling across borders.
Meanwhile, Kiran Rao continues to bask in the success of her recent directorial venture Laapataa Ladies, which garnered widespread acclaim for its unique narrative and sensitive storytelling. The film, which released on March 1, 2024, features Nitanshi Goel, Pratibha Ranta, Sparsh Shrivastava, Chhaya Kadam, and Ravi Kishan in key roles.
As Kiran takes her seat on the global jury panel, Indian cinema finds yet another voice of representation on the world stage, echoing the growing influence and creativity that Bollywood continues to offer to the world.