Acclaimed Assamese filmmaker Rima Das has been appointed as one of the three jurors for the prestigious New Currents Award at the 31st Busan International Film Festival (BIFF), scheduled to be held from October 6 to 15.
The New Currents Award is one of BIFF’s most significant competitive categories, dedicated to recognising emerging filmmakers from across Asia. The award carries a cash prize of KRW 20 million. Das will serve on the jury alongside renowned Korean actor Shim Eun-kyung and Chinese producer Shan Zuolong.
The appointment further strengthens Das’ long-standing association with the Busan International Film Festival. Her acclaimed films Bulbul Can Sing and Tora’s Husband were previously screened at BIFF, while Village Rockstars 2 premiered at the festival in 2024 and won the prestigious Kim Jiseok Award for Best Film. Her latest film Not a Hero is set to have its Asian premiere at this year’s edition of the festival. In addition, her forthcoming project Malati, My Love was presented at the Asian Project Market (APM), held alongside BIFF.
Expressing her excitement, Das said Busan has been an integral part of her filmmaking journey. She noted that she has attended the festival with her films, interacted with audiences and fellow filmmakers, and experienced BIFF from various perspectives. Returning as a juror, she added, carries special significance, especially with Not a Hero also premiering in Asia at the festival.
Known for her distinctive and deeply personal storytelling, Das has earned international recognition through screenings at major film festivals, including Toronto, Berlin and Busan. Films such as Village Rockstars, Bulbul Can Sing, Tora’s Husband, Village Rockstars 2 and Not a Hero have helped establish a unique cinematic voice from India on the global stage.
Joining Das on the New Currents jury are Korean actor Shim Eun-kyung, known for films including Sunny, Miss Granny and The Journalist, and Chinese producer Shan Zuolong, whose work has been featured at major international festivals such as Cannes, Venice and Berlin.
The 31st Busan International Film Festival will take place at the Busan Cinema Centre and various venues across Busan from October 6 to 15.
