Naga Feature Angh Wins TIFF Platform Prize and Secures Oscars Path

The Win

Indian feature film Angh has won the Platform Competition at the Toronto International Film Festival 2026, marking a historic first for the country and securing automatic eligibility for the International Feature Film category at the 2027 Academy Awards. Directed by Theja Rio, the movie was the sole Indian selection in this specific festival category, which focuses on bold directorial choices and strong visual storytelling.

Setting and Cast

Set in 1960s Nagaland, the story centers on an aging Konyak village chief and his son as they try to preserve their traditional lifestyle during a time of major social change. The production was shot on 16mm film and features an Indigenous Naga cast, alongside BAFTA-winning actor Douglas Henshall. It is produced by Nancy Nisa Beso and Theja Rio, with Jungle Book Studio handling its international and domestic distribution.

Reactions and Impact

Director Theja Rio noted that the project explores universal themes of family, home, and letting go. Producer Nancy Nisa Beso emphasized the long journey of bringing the regional story to the screen, while executive producer Gaurav Dhingra highlighted the film's roots in Nagaland and its milestone status for independent cinema.