Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, Sept 25: Sanjay Raina’s documentary short film, “Who Am I,” has emerged as a triumph in the world of cinema by securing the prestigious Best Documentary Short Film Award at the Gangtok International Film Festival at Gangtok in Sikkim recently.
The Jury which selected Who Am I for best documentary award included Sharon Stone the actor from USA, Emilia Clark, actor from UK, Mia Maestron from Argentina, Anita Abada, producer from Nigeria, Eddie Ndopu from South Africa and Dr Eckarft Von Hirschhausen TV presenter from Germany.
With an impressive tally of over 50 international, national awards, and numerous honours, Raina has consistently demonstrated his prowess as a filmmaker. His work has garnered not only critical acclaim but also a widespread appreciation from audiences around the world. These accolades span various categories, including Best Director Awards, Best Editing Awards, and official selections at renowned film festivals globally.
Earlier Sanjay Raina’s Award-Winning Film “Who Am I” earned Best Director Award Documentary Film at BIMIFF – Brazil International Monthly Independent Film Festival 2023.
Raina’s work delves deep into the profound themes of lost culture, tradition, language, and the heart-wrenching experiences of Kashmiri Pandits, offering a poignant reflection on their pain and resilience.”
Director Sanjay Raina has skilfully portrayed the trials and triumphs of the Kashmiri Pandit community, shedding light on their struggles and resilience in the face of adversity. The film showcases the richness of their heritage and the unwavering determination to safeguard their cultural identity throughout tumultuous times.
Sanjay Raina said the film explores the pain of being in exile, the tears of moving away from one’s own land, and the sadness of facing the exodus. Despite these challenges, the Kashmiri Pandit community has joined hands to revive their language, culture, traditions, and literature. “Who Am I” is an experimental film that showcases the real-time stories, interviews of poets, social activists, media professionals, and actual visuals of literature, culture, language, and traditions collected over a period of time.
Earlier Sanjay Raina was also honoured by Pt Amarnath Vaishnavi Foundation at Jammu for highlighting pain and plight of displaced Pandits.