Parama: A Journey with Aparna Sen

Legendary Bengali filmmaker Aparna Sen began her career as an actress in Satyajit Ray’s Teen Kanya. Over six decades, she has directed 17 films and is the only woman in India to win the National Award for Best Director twice, for 36 Chowringhee Lane (1981) and Mr. and Mrs. Iyer (2002). Sen is hailed as India’s ‘renaissance woman,’ influencing generations through her work as a director, actress, feminist, and political activist.

Parama: A Journey with Aparna Sen is the first film to encapsulate Sen’s six decades in cinema, paying tribute to her contributions to both filmmaking and social movements. It celebrates her advocacy for women’s rights, religious and ethnic minorities, pluralism, and diversity. Through Sen’s remarkable journey, the film offers a unique perspective on Indian cinema and society.

We are presenting Aparna Sen with the RED LOTUS LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD 2024 for her work to date. Unfortunately, Aparna Sen is unable to travel to Vienna. Rüdiger Tomczak, film critic and editor of the film magazine Shomingeki, will present the award to the winner in her absence.

SUMAN GHOSH
Suman Ghosh has directed 9 feature films and 2 documentaries. Trained at Cornell University, his debut Footsteps (2008) won two National Awards and was showcased at prestigious festivals worldwide. His subsequent works, including Dwando (2009) and Nobel Thief (2012) garnered international acclaim at festivals like Busan and BFI London. Ghosh’s films Shyamal Uncle Turns off the Lights (2013), Kadambari (2015), Peace Haven (2016), and Aadhaar (2019) have received widespread acclaim and festival recognition.

Red Lotus 2024

India 2024
81 Min | Color + Black & White | English + Bengali with English subtitles

Directed by Suman GHOSH

Aparna Sen © Mayaleela Films