Santhali Cinema – Historic National Film Award Brings Glory to Jharkhand’s Indigenous Storytelling
Santhali Cinema – A landmark achievement has brought nationwide attention to Jharkhand’s indigenous film industry as a Santhali-language production has secured a prestigious National Film Award for the very first time.
For the first time since the inception of the National Film Awards, a Santhali-language film has earned the prestigious honour, marking a defining moment for regional cinema from Jharkhand. The short film Angen, directed by Ravi Raj Murmu, received the 72nd National Film Award for Best Debut Film of a Director in the Non-Feature category. The recognition not only celebrates the filmmaker’s work but also places Santhali cinema on the national map, highlighting the cultural richness of one of India’s prominent tribal communities.
A Milestone for Santhali Cinema
The award is widely being viewed as a breakthrough for Santhali-language filmmaking, which has long remained outside the national spotlight despite its vibrant storytelling tradition. With Angen becoming the first film in the language to receive a National Film Award, the achievement represents a major step forward for indigenous cinema and reinforces the importance of preserving regional narratives through film.
The recognition also reflects the growing appreciation for stories rooted in local traditions, folklore and community experiences that have shaped generations across Jharkhand.
A Story Rooted in Folklore and Identity
Running for just over 12 minutes, Angen draws inspiration from a mystical folk tale passed down through generations. The narrative follows a young shepherd whose innocence captures the heart of a goddess. She takes him to a divine realm, where he lives for a time away from the world he once knew.
However, memories of his village and his former life gradually become impossible to ignore. Driven by a longing to return home, the shepherd finds his way back to Earth, only to discover that the village he remembered has disappeared. His search for belonging unfolds into a deeper exploration of identity, memory and the emotional bond people share with their homeland.
Reflecting Modern Social Changes
According to director Ravi Raj Murmu, the film was created to mirror the changing realities of contemporary society. He explained that increasing migration from villages to large cities for education, employment and improved opportunities often creates a growing distance between young people and their native language, customs and cultural identity.
Murmu said this concern formed the central idea behind Angen. While modern aspirations are important, he believes that maintaining a connection with one’s heritage is equally valuable. In his view, cultural identity can only remain strong when future generations continue to cherish their land, language and traditional values alongside social progress.
Award Recognised as a Collective Honour
The filmmaker described the National Film Award as recognition that extends far beyond his personal accomplishment. He said the honour belongs equally to the Santhali language, the rich folk traditions of Jharkhand and the countless elders who have preserved oral stories across generations.
Murmu noted that these traditional narratives have played an essential role in protecting the community’s cultural identity and inspiring new creative expressions for younger audiences.
Chief Minister Applauds the Achievement
Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren congratulated Ravi Raj Murmu on the national honour, describing it as a proud moment for the filmmaker as well as for the entire state and the Santhali-speaking community.
In his message, Soren said the recognition represents an important milestone in Murmu’s career while also demonstrating the increasing national appreciation for Santhali cinema. He added that Angen has successfully introduced the richness of Santhali language, traditions and storytelling to audiences across the country through one of India’s most respected film honours.