Sharmila Tagore Clinches Best Actress Award
International accolade marks her second win for Puratawn as global acclaim grows on the rise

Image: Instagram
In a sparkling moment of international recognition, Sharmila Tagore has clinched the Best Actress award at the New York Indian Film Festival for her performance in the film Puratawn (The Ancient). This accolade marks her second international award, underscoring her enduring impact on global cinema. The award was received on her behalf by Rituparna and Indraneil Sengupta, who took to Instagram to share the joyous news.
Award Ceremony Highlights
At the festival, the atmosphere was electric with celebration and pride. The award presentation put the spotlight on not only Sharmila Tagore’s exemplary performance but also on the enduring legacy of Indian cinema on an international stage. In a heartfelt caption posted on Instagram, the celebratory post mentioned, “We are thrilled that Sharmila Tagore won the Best Actress at the New York Indian Film festival. This is her second international award for Puratawn (The Ancient). Rituparna and myself received the award on her behalf.” The accompanying image, shared via the Instagram post, captures the very moment of recognition and the spirit of global celebration.
Celebrating Global Cinema
The significance of this win goes beyond a mere trophy. Puratawn (The Ancient) has been making waves for its artistic narrative and its dedication to reviving stories steeped in history and emotion. Festival organizers and cinephiles alike noted that awards such as these play a pivotal role in encouraging filmmakers to explore bold themes and visionary storytelling. As Indian cinema continues to break international barriers, achievements like Tagore’s win help to pave the way for more cross-cultural dialogue and cinematic exchanges.
Amid a festive hall and cheers from the audience, the film’s presence on the international stage has added another chapter to the long, illustrious career of Sharmila Tagore. At 75 years of age, her journey in Bollywood and beyond continues to inspire new generations of actors and directors. The win is a testament to her versatility and the timeless appeal she brings both to traditional and modern audiences.
Profile: Indraneil Sengupta’s Role In The Celebration
Indraneil Sengupta, a prominent figure in the entertainment industry, was at the forefront of the celebration as he took to his Instagram account to report the news. Known for his engaging social media presence and sharp reporting on celebrity happenings, Sengupta has steadily built a reputation for shedding light on both the glamour and the hard work behind the scenes. His active involvement in sharing this win not only emphasizes his commitment to quality journalism but also his deep connection with the cinematic community.
Drawing from his rich background in multimedia storytelling and a career spanning over two decades, Sengupta has frequently been seen covering high-profile events and film festivals. His previous social media posts—even those featuring film shoots and pre-release discussions—reflect a consistent passion for cinema. With educational credentials in Journalism and Media Studies and certifications in digital storytelling, his reports bring both insight and vibrancy to his audience. In this instance, his report on Tagore’s win adds another layer of credibility to an already well-earned accolade.
Impact On Indian Cinema And Future Prospects
Awards at international film festivals not only highlight individual brilliance but also shine a light on the evolving landscape of Indian storytelling. Puratawn, with its rich narrative and artistic finesse, serves as an example of the fresh perspectives being embraced by global audiences. Industry insiders speculate that such international recognition may encourage filmmakers to pursue even bolder projects that blend heritage with modern cinematic techniques.
For Sharmila Tagore, this win is emblematic of a career that has not only spanned decades but also reinvented itself in the face of a rapidly changing entertainment industry. Meanwhile, for the audience, it is a reminder that the magic of cinema transcends borders. The international stage, once considered a challenging frontier for Indian films, is now celebrating the artistic brilliance of its stalwarts.
The film—a journey of emotion, reflection, and connection—is set to engage viewers at various film festivals around the world. As Puratawn continues its screening run, it brings with it conversations about artistic integrity, the value of historical narratives, and the modern reinterpretation of classic themes.
With accolades piling up and the international spotlight shining brighter than ever, Sharmila Tagore’s recent win at the New York Indian Film Festival is a powerful reminder of the enduring nature of quality cinema. It also speaks to the collective efforts of those behind the scenes, including dedicated reporters like Indraneil Sengupta, whose timely coverage ensures that such milestones are celebrated and remembered by fans across the globe.
This moment of celebration at NYIFF is not merely about one award or one film. It is an emblem of the shared passion for cinema, a call to filmmakers and audiences alike to continue pushing creative boundaries while staying true to the roots of storytelling. As accolades continue to accrue and international partnerships blossom, the horizon for Indian cinema has never looked more promising.

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