Anuparna Roy Wins Best Director Award At Venice Film Festival

Anuparna Roy, a filmmaker from Purulia, has made history by winning the Best Director Award at the Venice Film Festival for 'Songs of Forgotten Trees'. This accomplishment highlights her inspiring journey from the IT sector to filmmaking.

Anuparna Roy, a filmmaker hailing from Purulia in West Bengal, has brought immense pride to India by clinching the Best Director Award at the 82nd Venice Film Festival. Her debut film, "Songs of Forgotten Trees," earned her this prestigious accolade, marking her as the first Indian director to achieve this honour.

Before stepping into filmmaking, Anuparna worked in an IT firm in Delhi. However, after relocating to Mumbai post-COVID, she rekindled her love for cinema and began writing screenplays. Her initial film, "Run to River," was shot in Purulia, but it was "Songs of Forgotten Trees" that truly established her in the industry.

Family's Pride and Joy

Anuparna's parents, Brahmananda Roy and Manisha Roy, were overjoyed with their daughter's achievement. Her father, who works as a production manager at Eastern Coalfields Limited, expressed his disbelief and pride: "We live in a normal middle-class family. I never thought that my daughter would one day win the Best Director Award in Venice."

Her mother shared her happiness too: "When she comes home, I will cook everything she likes. The smile on her face after receiving such a great honour is the biggest reward for us. I wanted her to be government employee. I was very much confident on her I was sure that she will definitely get the government jobs but She achieved more we are proud."

A Journey of Dedication

Anuparna's educational journey began at Narayanpur Primary School and continued through Ranipur Colliery High School and Naopara High School. She graduated with English Honours from Kulti College before pursuing a master's degree in mass communication in Delhi.

The film "Songs of Forgotten Trees" tells the story of two migrant women navigating life in Mumbai. It delves into themes of loneliness and resilience. As the sole Indian entry in its category at Venice, it received widespread acclaim.

Recognition from Prominent Figures

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee congratulated Anuparna on X (formerly Twitter), stating: "I am delighted by the news of our Purulia girl Anupurna Roy receiving an extraordinary international award... Her crowning achievement is a victory for the girls of our Bengal."

Bollywood actress Alia Bhatt also extended her congratulations via Instagram: "A huge congratulations to Anuparna Roy for her win at Venice for Songs of Forgotten Trees. What a beautiful moment for Indian cinema".

An Inspiration to Many

Anuparna's success story serves as an inspiration not only to her younger sister but also to many budding filmmakers across India. Her journey from a small village in Purulia to international recognition underscores her dedication and hard work.

The people of Narayanpur eagerly await Anuparna's return to celebrate this monumental achievement with her. Her future projects are highly anticipated by both fans and critics alike.