Nagaland filmmaker Theja Rio’s film Angh has won the Platform Prize at the 2026 Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), bringing international attention to a story rooted in the cultural history of 1960s Nagaland.
The award was announced at TIFF on Sunday, September 20. The Platform jury praised the film for its “refreshing perspectives, strength of filmmaking, and deeply resonant portrait of a world”. The jury also recognised Rio’s “vision, audacity, and courage” in making the film.
Angh was one of 12 films selected for this year’s Platform programme, which is TIFF’s only juried competition. The section features films by filmmakers noted for distinctive voices and directorial vision. The Platform Prize includes a trophy and a cash award of CAD 20,000.
Set in 1960s Nagaland, Angh follows a Konyak chief and his son as they deal with cultural changes and questions of identity following the arrival of an American missionary. The film was shot on 16mm, with cinematography by Adam Pietkiewicz.
The award also gives Angh a direct pathway to consideration for the Academy Award for Best International Feature Film under TIFF’s new Oscar eligibility arrangements. TIFF is among six international film festivals designated with a direct pathway to the Oscars, with the festival stating that the Platform Prize-winning film is eligible for consideration in the International Feature Film category.
The Platform jury was headed by Argentine filmmaker Pablo Trapero and included filmmaker Amma Asante, actor-filmmaker Sylvia Chang, producer Luc Déry and Albert Lee.
During his acceptance speech, Rio thanked those who supported the making of Angh, beginning with his parents and girlfriend Andrea. He also acknowledged the film’s team, led by producer Nancy Nisa Beso, along with its cast and crew.
Angh is produced by Nancy Nisa Beso and Theja Rio. Jungle Book Studio represents the film for international and domestic distribution and acquired its international sales rights before its world premiere at TIFF.
