The Chennai International Film Festival concluded on a triumphant note with Tamil cinema taking centre stage as Ram’s Paranthu Po was crowned Best Tamil Feature Film, marking yet another milestone in the filmmaker’s meaningful storytelling journey.
Tourist Family, starring Sasikumar and Simran, secured the Second Best Tamil Feature Film Award, with Sasikumar also winning Best Actor for his powerful portrayal of a Sri Lankan Tamil immigrant navigating survival, identity and displacement.
Lijomol Jose won Best Actress for her compelling performance as a lesbian dancer in Kadhal Enbadhu Podhu Udamai, earning praise for portraying a sensitive narrative with dignity and emotional depth.
Actor Kaali Venkat received the Special Jury Award for his heartfelt role as a dedicated father in Madras Matinee, while Sheela Rajkumar was honored with a Special Mention Certificate for her impactful performance in Vembu.
In the technical categories, S. Pandikumar won Best Cinematographer for Alangu, while Nagooran Ramacharan bagged Best Editor for Mayakoothu. Alagiakoothan was recognized as Best Sound Recordist for his exceptional work in 3BHK and Alangu.
Beyond Tamil cinema, the international segment also celebrated global storytelling brilliance. Nikola I, Vukcevic’s The Tower of Strength (Obraz) won Best International Feature Film, while Murat Ceri’s Creating a Man earned Second Best International Feature Film. Lalith Rathnayake’s Riverstone took home the Special Jury Award in the World Cinema Feature category.
This year’s festival reaffirmed Chennai International Film Festival reputation as a platform honoring bold narratives, cultural depth and cinematic excellence, celebrating artists who continue to elevate both Tamil and world cinema.
Sources: Cinema Express
