MUMBAI, Nov 5: The Film and Television Institute of India (FTII) is celebrating after its student film, Sunflowers Were The First Ones To Know, qualified for the 2025 Oscars in the Live Action Short Film category. Directed by FTII student Chidananda S Naik, this Kannada language short film draws inspiration from Indian folk stories and traditions.
Earlier this year, the film won the first prize at the Cannes Film Festival’s La Cinef Selection, where the jury praised its “illuminating storytelling and masterful direction.” The film is a collaborative effort featuring the talents of Suraj Thakur (Cinematography), Manoj V (Editing), and Abhishek Kadam (Sound Design).
Sunflowers Were The First Ones To Know tells a poignant story about an elderly woman who steals the village rooster, leading to an unusual phenomenon where sunlight ceases, causing chaos in the community. In an attempt to restore balance, a prophecy is invoked, forcing the woman’s family into exile as they embark on a mission to retrieve the stolen rooster.
With critical acclaim on the festival circuit, the film is now set to compete with top short films globally. The campaign for Sunflowers will include special screenings, press opportunities, and Q&A events, offering Academy members and audiences worldwide a chance to experience the richness of India’s storytelling traditions.
Beyond its accolades, Sunflowers Were The First Ones To Know invites viewers to explore Indian culture and storytelling, showcasing universal themes that resonate with audiences around the world.
