From FTII protest leader to Cannes laureate: Payal Kapadia's journey
Payal Kapadia, the director of Cannes's Grand Prix winner All We Imagine As Light, has had a journey like no other. She was once embroiled in a significant controversy during her time at the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII). In 2015, she spearheaded a historic 139-day protest against the appointment of television actor Gajendra Chauhan as chairman of the institute. From an audacious FTII protest leader to a celebrated Cannes laureate, we revisit Kapadia's eventful journey.
FTII protest: A turning point in Kapadia's career
The protest escalated on its 68th day when the then-director of FTII, Prashant Pathrabe, ordered students to leave the hostel and assess their incomplete film projects. Students deemed this action "irrational and unjustified," leading to a confrontation in Pathrabe's office where they formed a human chain and reportedly refused to leave until their demands were met. This resulted in a midnight crackdown by police, leading to the arrest of five students and charges against 35 others, including Kapadia.
Consequences and triumph: Kapadia's journey post-protest
Following the protest, Kapadia "faced disciplinary action, lost her scholarship, and was barred from participating in the foreign exchange program along with seven other students." However, her fortunes took a turn in 2017 when her short film Afternoon Clouds was selected for the prestigious Cannes Film Festival. In response to this achievement, FTII extended an offer to cover Kapadia's travel costs to the festival, along with providing a letter of support.
FTII director explained the institute's change in stance
FTII Director Bhupendra Kainthola explained the institute's change in stance to Hindustan Times, stating, "Our decision to support students or deny them scholarship previously was based on how their conduct has been on the campus." "A few days after the protest was over, many students came to me and said they never realized that their past actions would haunt them throughout their lives." He added that many students regretted their actions after realizing they would have long-term consequences.
When Kapadia's 'A Night of Knowing Nothing' won Best Documentary
Despite all the institute drama, Kapadia continued to triumph. She again ventured into documentary filmmaking with A Night of Knowing Nothing. This emotive narrative revolves around a woman writing letters to a distant lover amid the backdrop of a protest, weaving a poignant tale of longing and introspection. This documentary garnered Kapadia the prestigious "le prix du documentaire" (Best Documentary) award at Cannes in 2021.
Kapadia's grand triumph at the 77th Cannes Film Festival
Finally, Kapadia's latest victory came with her debut feature All We Imagine As Light, which won the Grand Prix award—the second highest honor—at the 77th Cannes Film Festival. This is the first time an Indian film has received this honor! Despite her past experiences at FTII, Kapadia holds no grudges against the institute. She acknowledges that public education played a significant role in shaping her as a filmmaker. On Sunday, FTII also congratulated her on social media.
