Kohima: Filmmaker Theja Rio returned to Nagaland on September 29, greeted by a grand reception at the Cargo Terminal Area in Chümoukedima. The Angami Youth Organisation hosted the event to honor Rio and his team after their film ANGH secured the Platform Prize at the 2026 Toronto International Film Festival. The victory marks the first time an Indian film has claimed this award.
This win clears a path for an Oscar run. Under current Academy rules, the film is now eligible for the International Feature Film category at the 2027 Oscars. Rio remains focused on the road ahead. He told the crowd, "We will continue to need your love and support and most importantly, your prayers."
The feature grew from a 2019 short film. Rio wrote the first draft in 2021 before production began in 2024. He described the shoot as a massive challenge without a formal local film industry, relying instead on what he dubbed an industry of love and support. Residents across the state offered homes and labor throughout filming in locations like the Eastern Naga areas, Ghaspani, and Puliebadze.
The film captures 1960s Nagaland through the story of a Konyak village chief and his son meeting an American missionary. Rio credited producer Nancy Nisa Beso and cast members Anghlong Konyak, Sobino Rengma, Genpai Konyak, Amah Konyak, and Wangton Konyak. Scottish actor Douglas Henshall also appears in the production. Casting director Bendang Walling and assistant director Limasunglir received special recognition for their roles in the project.
"Bringing our film here means more to us than anything else we’ll ever achieve," Rio said. He views the project as a cultural U-turn that reconnected him with his roots. The reception included remarks from the Chakhroma Public Organisation, the Naga Students' Federation, and the Eastern Naga Students' Federation.
Comments