Assamese filmmaker Maharshi Tuhin Kashyap has achieved another major milestone on the international film circuit after receiving the prestigious ‘Secret Program Fellini’ Award at the 27th Lucania Film Festival in Pisticci, Basilicata, Italy. The honour was conferred on him for his debut feature film, Kok Kok Kokoook, marking a significant achievement in his emerging filmmaking career.
The award, instituted in remembrance of celebrated Italian filmmaker Federico Fellini, recognises filmmakers whose works demonstrate an individual artistic identity and contribute fresh perspectives to global cinema. Kashyap received the award during the festival’s special Secret Program, curated by renowned Iranian filmmaker Mohsen Makhmalbaf. The fact that Makhmalbaf personally presented the honour added further significance to the achievement.
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Kok Kok Kokoook made its European premiere at the Lucania Film Festival. The film had previously attracted international attention after making its world premiere at the Busan International Film Festival. It was subsequently screened at the International Film Festival of Kerala and the Dhaka International Film Festival.
Kashyap developed the film as his graduation project at the Satyajit Ray Film and Television Institute (SRFTI). The story follows Siken, a migrant chicken seller whose prized RX100 motorcycle mysteriously disappears. Fearing that he could become entangled in a police case, Siken’s anxiety gradually takes an unusual and surreal turn when he transforms into the motorcycle itself.
Through a blend of magic realism, satire and social observation, the film explores several contemporary realities in Assam and India. It also highlights the uncertainties experienced by migrant communities and the social vulnerabilities that can shape their lives.
Reflecting on the recognition, Kashyap described the experience of having his film selected by Makhmalbaf and receiving the award from a filmmaker he deeply admires as a dream come true. He also credited the entire cast and crew, dedicating the achievement to everyone who contributed to the film’s journey.
Kashyap has previously earned international recognition for his work. His short film The Horse From Heaven was an official selection at the 2023 Academy Awards and won top honours at several film festivals, including the VGIK Film Festival, Golden Raven Film Festival and Bengaluru International Short Film Festival. His non-fiction film Flowers In A Hailstorm also premiered at the Nara International Film Festival in Japan.
The latest Fellini Award further strengthens Kashyap’s reputation as an emerging filmmaker from Assam and places his distinctive storytelling on an increasingly prominent international platform.
