NHRC Awards Winners of Short Film Competition 2025

• 08 Apr 2026
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On 7 April 2026, the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) organized an award ceremony today at NHRC headquarters in New Delhi so as to honor the seven winners of its Human Rights Short Film Competition 2025. Addressing the audience, NHRC Chairperson Justice V. Ramasubramanian congratulated all the winners. He praised their passion for filmmaking. 

He emphasized the impact that audio-visual content has and described it as a powerful medium that resonates with subconscious mind. Justice Ramasubramanian stated that entries were received in a total of 24 Indian languages from across India and highlighted that the diversity of films showcased the Commission's national character.

NHRC members, including Justice (Dr.) Bidyut Ranjan Sarangi, Smt. Vijaya Bharathi Sayani, Secretary General Shri Bharat Lal, Director General of Investigation Smt. Anupama Nilekar Chandra and other senior officials were also present at the award ceremony. 

Justice Ramasubramanian pointed out that since the competition's inception in 2015, participation has grown each year. This showcases growing engagement of public when it comes to human rights issues. He expressed optimism while mentioning that this trend would carry on as more and more individuals use creative platforms for the purpose of raising awareness for social concerns.

NHRC Member Justice (Dr.) Bidyut Ranjan Sarangi emphasized on the fact that all seven winning films conveyed distinct messages and highlighted cinema's role when it comes to promoting and protecting human rights. In particular, he praised "The Dusk of Life" documentary as well as "Rani" short film for their sensitive portrayal of marginalized communities within the country.

Announcement of Winners

Joint Secretary, Smt. Saidingpuii Chhakchhuak announced the winners of the Human Rights Short Film Competition 2025. The details of the winners are provided below:

1. First Prize Winner

The film ‘Rani’ by Ms. Sarika Jain received the first prize of Rs 2 lakh along with a trophy and certificate. This Hindi film, which includes English subtitles, explores class divisions and the challenges faced by women domestic workers.

2. Second Prize Winner

The second prize of Rs. 1.5 lakh was awarded to ‘Meanwhile She..’ by Shri Amal S. This Malayalam film features English subtitles and addresses the disproportionate burdens experienced by working women in context of gender stereotypes and domestic violence.

3. Third Prize Winner

The third prize of Rs. 1 lakh went to ‘The Delivery’ by Sai Shashank Tati from Tamil Nadu. This Tamil film highlights the challenges the gig workers have to deal with, including job insecurity and a lack of social protection.

Special Mention Received by Four Films

A total of four films received a Special Mention at the award ceremony, accompanied by a cash award of Rs. 50,000. 

• ‘Malati’ by Falguni Bhakta

• ‘Second Chance’ by Ravi Karnwal

• ‘Dusk of Life’ by Damodar D. Pawar

• ‘Bhagyashree’ by Manoj Appaso Janwekar

These films addressed themes ranging from tribal education and prison reforms to elderly resilience and the rights of widows in rural areas in India.

Insights Shared by Award-Winning Filmmakers

At the award ceremony, the winning filmmakers shared insights into their creative processes. All awarded films will be made available on the Commission's website and can be utilized by government bodies, academic institutions and civil society organizations for promotion of human rights awareness.