NEW DELHI, Taking bilateral and cultural ties between India and China to unprecedented heights through the medium of cinema, theater, and ar...
NEW DELHI, Taking bilateral and cultural ties between India and China to unprecedented heights through the medium of cinema, theater, and art, the two-day "1st Delhi International Film Festival Chinese Film Festival 2026" concluded today in the national capital with a grand awards ceremony and two historic future announcements. The landmark festival was organized by the Embassy of the People's Republic of China in special collaboration with the Delhi International Film Festival (DIFF) and the National School of Drama (NSD)—an autonomous body under the Ministry of Culture—at the Films Division Auditorium (FDA), Mahadev Road.
Under the smooth No Objection Certificate (NOC) issued by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (I&B Ministry), more than 10 exceptional films from both countries were screened, receiving immense love from film enthusiasts and critics alike. The mega event was managed efficiently by 'Beat Life Entertainment', with its driving force, Piyush Sagar, demonstrating brilliant leadership as the Coordinator and Operational Head.
Two Major Announcements for the Future Cinematic Journey:
The grand finale marked a monumental milestone for cross-border cultural diplomacy with two major official announcements:
1. Dates for the highly anticipated "2nd Chinese Film Festival" in New Delhi will be announced very soon.
2. Mirroring this successful model, a grand 'Indian Film Festival' will soon be hosted in Beijing, China. This historic event will be organized through the joint collaboration and synergy of the Indian Embassy in China and the Delhi International Film Festival (DIFF), bringing the essence of Indian cinema to Chinese audiences.
Presentation of Trophies, Gold Medals, and Certificates:
As the main highlight of the closing ceremony, the winners chosen by the esteemed jury and selection committee were presented with prestigious official trophies, Gold Medals, and Certificates:
Official Winners List - Chinese Film Festival 2026:
• Best Feature Film:The Composer (Director: Xierzhati Yahefu)
• Selection Committee Choice Award:The Sinking of the Lisbon Maru (Directors: Ming Fan, Lily Gong, Fang Li)
• Best Director (Feature Film): Yihui Shao (Film: Her Story)
• Best Actor (Feature Film): Hu Jun (Film: The Composer / Director: Xierzhati Yahefu)
• Best Actress (Feature Film):Night Red (Axis of War: Night Red FF)
• Best Short Film:A Passing Clouds (Director: Peiyan Tang)
• Best Child Actress: Aaradhya (Film: The Girl with Close Lips / Director: Ramkishore Parcha)
Core Perspectives on Cinema and Bilateral Relations
Reflecting on the profound impact and grand success of the festival, representatives from the Chinese Embassy and prominent Indian art veterans shared their official remarks:
Mr. Wang Xinming, Minister Counselor of the Chinese Embassy, highlighted the shared vision of the Indian and Chinese film industries while expressing his gratitude to the Indian ministries: "Cinema is a deeply influential and vibrant medium that directly connects the hearts of two great civilizations across geographical boundaries. Both India and China possess deep cultural roots. We extend our heartfelt, special thanks to the National School of Drama (NSD), the Ministry of Culture, and the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (I&B Ministry) for their wonderful and seamless cooperation in making this historic festival a grand success. This exchange will further strengthen the lasting bonds of mutual understanding, trust, and friendship between our two nations."
Earlier, Dr. Zhang Hailin, First Secretary of the Chinese Embassy, also lauded the power of the medium, stating: "This film festival stands as a testament to our deep-rooted cultural ties. Through the impactful medium of cinema, we can foster mutual understanding, bridge cultural gaps, and build enduring friendships between the people of India and China."
Lauding this historic cultural initiative, Jury Head and Eminent Theater Director Mr. Arvind Gaur stated: "Cinema and theater transcend borders to create the strongest bridges of communication. Such film festivals are vital between two large neighbors like India and China, as art provides a unique window to deeply understand each other's history, lifestyle, and human emotions. The National School of Drama's association with this festival marks an unprecedented milestone in our country's history."
Mr. Ramkishore Parcha, Founder President and Festival Director of DIFF, expressed his sincere gratitude to all collaborators and reiterated that NSD's first-ever official association with a film festival of this nature is a historic achievement.
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