Theja Rio’s debut feature explores tradition, cultural identity and a changing way of life in 1960s Nagaland
Toronto/New Delhi: Indian feature film ‘Angh’, directed by Nagaland filmmaker Theja Rio, has earned major international recognition after winning the prestigious Platform Prize at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) 2026. The film was the only Indian entry in this year’s 12-film Platform competition, TIFF’s juried section dedicated to distinctive directorial voices. (Akashvani News)
Against this backdrop, Indian Consul General to Canada Mahavir Singhvi met Nancy Nisa Beso, producer of Angh, at the Consulate and congratulated the entire team on the film’s achievement.
Set in 1960s Nagaland, Angh centres on an ageing Konyak village chief and his son, who are among the last members of their community holding on to their ancestral faith and traditional way of life as their surroundings undergo profound change. The film explores themes of family, cultural identity, faith, memory, tradition and the changing relationship with home. (DIPR Nagaland)
Directed by Theja Rio, Angh is his feature directorial debut and has grown from an earlier short film of the same name. The feature was produced by Nancy Nisa Beso and Theja Rio and was shot on 16mm, featuring an Indigenous Naga cast alongside BAFTA Award-winning actor Douglas Henshall. (DIPR Nagaland)
The TIFF Platform jury recognised the film for its distinctive perspective, filmmaking strength and deeply resonant portrayal of a world, while also highlighting Rio’s directorial vision and courage. (India Today)
The Platform Prize also gives Angh eligibility for consideration in the International Feature Film category at the 2027 Academy Awards under the applicable TIFF qualification route. This does not mean the film has already been nominated for an Oscar, but it provides a direct pathway for Academy consideration. (India Today)
The recognition is particularly significant for Naga and regional Indian cinema, bringing the history, culture and contemporary identity of Nagaland to a wider international audience. It also highlights how stories rooted in India’s diverse communities and languages can find resonance on major global cinematic platforms.
The Consul General’s meeting with the producer underscores the growing international visibility of Indian cinema and celebrates the creative work of filmmakers who are bringing distinctive regional voices and cultural narratives from India to audiences worldwide.