New Delhi, Saturday, April 26, 2025: The film "A Doll Made Up of Clay" by a student of the Satyajit Ray Film and Television Institute (SRFTI) has been officially selected for the prestigious La Cinef section of the 78th Festival de Cannes 2025, marking a significant achievement for Indian cinema. As the only Indian entry in this category, the film is an important milestone in India's cinematic educational journey.
The story revolves around a young Nigerian athlete who sells his father's land to pursue his dream of becoming a professional footballer in India. However, a career-ending injury leaves him shattered, and he finds himself stranded in an unfamiliar country. Through physical pain, emotional trauma, and a crisis of identity, he reconnects with his ancestors' spiritual traditions, finding liberation and purpose. The clay doll symbolizes a powerful search for displacement, loss, and cultural resilience.
Produced under SRFTI's Film and Television Production (PFT) department, this 23-minute experimental film highlights cross-border collaboration. It was created by PFT student Sahil Manoj Ingale and directed by Ethiopian student Kokob Gebrehaweria Tesfaye, as part of the ICCR African Scholarship program. The film reflects SRFTI's commitment to global cinematic innovation.
This invitation to compete at La Cinef in Cannes showcases emerging talents from top global film schools. The festival will be held in France this May.
Prof. Sukant Majumdar (Dean, SRFTI) expressed, “It is reassuring when any cinematic expression from our students gets recognized on such a prestigious global platform. We take immense pride in this achievement and are proud of our students. I wish them the best of luck for the competition.”