Bhubaneswar,(Orissa Today) Mar 20: According to Article 21 of the Constitution, every individual has the right to live with dignity, and persons with disabilities cannot be deprived of this right. Highlighting the challenges faced by persons with disabilities (PwDs) and encouraging their participation in various fields, as well as advocating for their rights and welfare, are essential. The Odisha State Government believes that short films are one of the best mediums to raise awareness about these issues.
With this objective, the Social Security and Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (SSEPD) Department of Odisha has organized a National Short Film Festival and Competition under the title “Samarthya”. Honorable Prime Minister has emphasized that persons with disabilities are not incapable but rather Divyang (divinely-abled). Inspired by his vision and guided by the Honorable Chief Minister of Odisha, the SSEPD Department has continuously introduced various initiatives to empower PwDs.
To further enhance Odisha’s historical and cultural prestige on the global stage, the department has undertaken this unique initiative using the medium of cinema to raise awareness and integrate PwDs, including children, into mainstream society.
Participation and Selection Process
The festival received over 150 entries from filmmakers across India, including from Mumbai, Kolkata, Delhi, Haryana, and various parts of Odisha. After a rigorous two-stage selection process, 71 short films—categorized into national and Odisha divisions—were screened at the festival. These films, with durations ranging from 2 to 5 minutes, showcased impactful stories about disability empowerment.
The state government has announced a total cash prize of ?10 lakh, which was awarded to outstanding filmmakers during the festival. The selection jury included renowned national-level producers and directors who evaluated the films based on creativity, impact, and storytelling.
Awards and Recognition
After two days of screenings and deliberations, the jury selected the best films and filmmakers across various categories. Notably, two Divyang individuals were honored as Best Actor and Best Actress for their exceptional performances.
The event was attended by eminent personalities, including Nityanand Gand, Jayashree Tripathy, Sonia Behera (Additional Secretary), and several other distinguished guests. Officials expressed hope that in the coming years, esteemed directors and producers from across India will continue to create inspiring films that promote the inclusion of persons with disabilities in mainstream society.
Organizing Team
The festival was successfully executed under the leadership of emerging young producer Ramesh Barik from RR Events & Cine Productions, along with creative head Shyama Prasad Mishra.
