Aribam Syam Sharma Honoured with Inaugural Golden Beaver Award at India Film Festival of Alberta 2025

Renowned Manipuri filmmaker Aribam Syam Sharma has been conferred the inaugural Golden Beaver Award at the India Film Festival of Alberta (IFFA) 2025, held on September 28 at the Winspear Centre, Edmonton, Canada. The award, instituted this year by IFFA, recognises individuals who have made outstanding and lasting contributions to Indian cinema, with a special focus on voices from Northeast India.

Sharma, celebrated for his pioneering work in showcasing the stories, artistry, and cultural identity of the North-East on both national and international platforms, was honoured alongside legendary actor-director Kamal Haasan.

In his congratulatory message, Madhan Selvaraj, Executive Director of IFFA, said, “Your films have not only expanded the language of Indian cinema but have also given voice to a region and its people, inspiring generations of filmmakers. Your name stands alongside other exceptional contributors to Indian cinema, and we are privileged to celebrate your remarkable journey.”

Expressing gratitude, the veteran filmmaker said, “With deep humility and joy, I thank the India Film Festival of Alberta for selecting me as one of the recipients of the Golden Beaver Award. I gratefully accept this recognition. I would have loved to attend the festival, but my current health condition prevents me. I wish great success to IFFA 2025.”

The award was received on his behalf by film historian and filmmaker Parthajit Baruah, and presented by Masakui Rungsung, Consulate General of India, Vancouver.

Sharma’s illustrious career, spanning decades, has profoundly shaped Indian cinema through films that authentically depict the traditions, struggles, and cultural richness of Manipur and the North-East. His work continues to inspire filmmakers and audiences alike, bridging regional narratives with the broader fabric of Indian and world cinema.

The Golden Beaver Award, presented for the first time this year, symbolizes IFFA’s commitment to recognising luminaries whose contributions often remain underrepresented in mainstream film celebrations. The 2025 edition of IFFA featured the theme “Spotlight on Northeast India,” highlighting the region’s diversity and cinematic heritage.

Since its inception in 2015, the India Film Festival of Alberta has become a premier platform for independent and regional cinema, fostering cultural dialogue and promoting cross-border collaboration between India and Canada.

With the conferral of the Golden Beaver Award on Aribam Syam Sharma and Kamal Haasan, IFFA 2025 has set a new milestone in celebrating diversity, excellence, and inclusivity in Indian cinema.