Leh: Ladakhi cinema achieved a major breakthrough as the film project “Kakthet” (Idiot), directed by Stenzin Tankong, won the top prize in the Co-Production Features category at the NFDC Waves Film Bazaar, held alongside the 56th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in Goa.
Produced by Ritu Sarin, Tenzing Sonam and Rajesh Thanickan, Kakthet secured a grant of USD 10,000, emerging as the leading project in its category. Paromita Dhar’s film “Ulta” (Madam) won the second prize with a USD 5,000 grant.
Calling the win a “landmark moment for Ladakhi cinema”, producer Ritu Sarin said the project reflects a story rooted deeply in the remote Changthang region and could only be brought to life by a Ladakhi filmmaker. She added that the recognition will help the team secure the funding necessary to complete the film.
Director Stenzin Tankong said the award has opened a path for Ladakhi stories to gain global visibility. “A film from Changthang now has a real chance to reach the international stage. It’s a long journey ahead, and I hope the state government will support us in making this dream a reality,” he said.
The Film Bazaar also announced several other grants, including the Netflix Documentary Grant of USD 500 to “Simhastha Kumbh” by Amitabha Singh.
The Red Sea Fund awarded USD 2,500 to Sandeep Sreelekha’s development project “The Manager”, and USD 5,000each to Work in Progress titles “Azhi” by Hessa Salih and “Ustad Bantoo” by Arsh Jain.
The Platoon One Script Grant of Rs 2 lakh went to “Nazma Ka Tadka”, written by Sapan Taneja.
The award ceremony also observed a moment of silence to pay tribute to veteran actor Dharmendra, who passed away on Monday.
Kakthet’s recognition marks a proud moment for Ladakh’s growing film community and strengthens the region’s presence on the national and global cinema map.
