Rima Das Joins Jury for New Currents Award at Busan International Film Festival 2026

Acclaimed filmmaker Rima Das has been appointed as a juror for the New Currents Award at the 31st Busan International Film Festival, which will take place from October 6 to 15, 2026. This award highlights emerging talent in Asian cinema and includes a cash prize. Das, known for her unique storytelling style, has a rich history with the festival, having showcased several of her films there. She will be joined by notable figures from the film industry, including Korean actor Shim Eun-kyung and Chinese producer Shan Zuolong. Das expresses her excitement about returning to Busan and engaging with new voices in cinema.

By Narendra Chaudhary Sep 22, 2026, 16:46 IST

Rima Das Appointed as Juror for New Currents Award

File image of Acclaimed Assamese filmmaker Rima Das (Photo: Rima Das/Meta)

Guwahati, Sept 22: Renowned filmmaker Rima Das has been selected as one of the three jurors for the prestigious New Currents Award at the upcoming 31st Busan International Film Festival (BIFF), scheduled from October 6 to 15.

The New Currents Award is a significant accolade at BIFF, aimed at recognizing promising Asian filmmakers, and it includes a cash prize of KRW 20 million. Das will be serving on the jury alongside celebrated Korean actor Shim Eun-kyung and Chinese producer Shan Zuolong.

This appointment signifies another milestone in Das's enduring connection with the Busan festival. Her previous works, including Bulbul Can Sing and Tora’s Husband, have been showcased at BIFF, while her film Village Rockstars 2 premiered there in 2024, earning the Kim Jiseok Award for Best Film. This year, her latest project, Not a Hero, will also have its Asian Premiere at the festival. Additionally, her upcoming film Malati, My Love was featured at the Asian Project Market (APM) held in conjunction with BIFF.

“Busan has played a crucial role in my journey as a filmmaker. I have presented my films here, engaged with audiences and fellow filmmakers, and experienced the festival from various angles. Returning as a juror is profoundly significant for me. With Not a Hero premiering here, I am particularly thrilled to be part of this year’s festival. I look forward to discovering new voices from across Asia and participating in enriching discussions, making this a memorable experience in Busan,” expressed Rima Das.

Das is celebrated for her unique and personal storytelling style, with her films gaining recognition on the international festival circuit, including prestigious events in Toronto, Berlin, and Busan. Her works, such as Village Rockstars, Bulbul Can Sing, Tora’s Husband, Village Rockstars 2, and Not a Hero, have collectively contributed to a distinctive cinematic narrative from India.

Alongside Das, the jury will also feature Shim Eun-kyung, known for her roles in films like Sunny, Miss Granny, and The Journalist, and Shan Zuolong, a Chinese producer recognized for his contributions to films showcased at Cannes, Venice, and Berlin.

The 31st Busan International Film Festival will take place from October 6 to 15, 2026, at the Busan Cinema Centre and various locations throughout Busan.