Rima Das' 'Not a Hero' Triumphs at Melbourne Film Festival
Rima Das Celebrates Another Win
Image of Assamese filmmaker Rima Das (Photo: AT)
Guwahati, Aug 14: Renowned filmmaker Rima Das from Assam has achieved remarkable success with her latest feature film, 'Not a Hero', which secured the Best Indie Film Award at the 2026 Indian Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM) during its premiere in Australia.
This accolade marks the second occasion Rima Das has received this prestigious award, having previously won it in 2019 for her film 'Bulbul Can Sing'.
All five of her feature films have been showcased at the IFFM, and she also contributed to the 'My Melbourne' anthology.
'Not a Hero' made its world debut at the Berlin International Film Festival in February 2026, where it was part of the Generation Kplus Competition and earned a Crystal Bear Special Mention from the Children’s Jury.
“Winning this award again after 'Bulbul Can Sing' in 2019 holds a special place in my heart. The IFFM has played a significant role in my filmmaking journey over the years,” expressed Das.
The narrative of 'Not a Hero' revolves around an 11-year-old boy who is sent from the urban landscape to his ancestral village. There, he encounters a distant aunt, forms a bond with a horse, and embarks on various adventures with local children.
Das emphasized that the film delves into themes of children's freedom, imagination, and their connection with nature.
Produced by Flying River Films in collaboration with Akanga Film Asia and TrainTripper Films, 'Not a Hero' is being represented for global sales by Paris-based MMM Sales.
A two-time National Award-winning filmmaker, Das often explores themes of childhood, identity, and the bond between humans and nature in her works. In 2024, she became a member of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences.
Her films, including 'Village Rockstars', 'Bulbul Can Sing', 'Tora’s Husband', and 'Village Rockstars 2', have been featured in over 150 film festivals globally, amassing more than 75 awards collectively.