AIFF Honours Sai Paranjpye in 2025

The 10th edition of AIFF will be held in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar from January 15 to 19, 2025. During the opening ceremony on January 15, Paranjpye will be conferred with the Padmapani Lifetime Achievement Award at the Rukmini Auditorium of MGM University Campus.

Key Highlights:

Event and Award Details

• Sai Paranjpye will receive the Padmapani Lifetime Achievement Award at the Ajanta-Ellora International Film Festival (AIFF) 2025.

• The AIFF’s 10th edition will take place in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar from January 15 to 19, 2025.

• Paranjpye will be honored during the festival’s opening ceremony at the Rukmini Auditorium on January 15.

Contributions to Cinema

• Paranjpye is best known for her timeless slice-of-life classics like Sparsh, Chashme Buddoor, Katha, and Saaz.

• A significant figure in the Indian parallel cinema movement, she worked alongside legends like Shyam Benegal, Govind Nihalani, and Mani Kaul.

• Apart from cinema, Paranjpye has made substantial contributions to Marathi literature through notable plays like Jaswandi, Sakkhe Shejari, and Albel.

Career Milestones

• At 86, Paranjpye’s career boasts four National Film Awards.

• She served as the Chairperson of the Children’s Film Society of India (CFSI) on two separate occasions.

• In recognition of her cinematic legacy, she was awarded the Padma Bhushan in 2006.

• Paranjpye is also an alumna of Delhi’s National School of Drama.

Award Details

• The Padmapani Lifetime Achievement Award includes a Padmapani memento, a letter of honor, and a monetary prize of ₹2 lakh.

• The award selection committee features prominent personalities like Latika Padgaonkar (chairperson), Ashutosh Gowariker, and Sunil Sukthankar.

Significance of the Award

• This esteemed recognition celebrates Sai Paranjpye’s extraordinary legacy in both Indian cinema and Marathi literature, honoring her as one of the most influential filmmakers of her time.

• Paranjpye’s award underscores the lasting impact of her work, which continues to inspire generations of filmmakers, writers, and audiences alike.

Final Thoughts

Sai Paranjpye's recognition with the Padmapani Lifetime Achievement Award at the Ajanta-Ellora International Film Festival 2025 is a fitting tribute to a legendary filmmaker.

Her contribution to Indian parallel cinema, especially through classics like Sparsh and Chashme Buddoor, reflects a deep understanding of human relationships and social themes.

Beyond cinema, her work in Marathi literature has also left a meaningful impact. At 86, her legacy continues to inspire. This honor not only celebrates her achievements but also highlights the enduring power of authentic storytelling in Indian arts and culture.