The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) hosted its prestigious Human Rights Short Film Competition 2025 awards ceremony today at its premises in New Delhi. This significant event saw seven talented filmmakers honored for their compelling work, which sheds light on various crucial human rights issues across India. NHRC Chairman Justice V. Ramasubramanian led the ceremony, emphasizing the profound impact audio-visual content has in shaping public consciousness and advocating for justice. The competition highlights the growing engagement of creative minds in promoting and protecting human rights.

What Happened?

The awards ceremony celebrated the creativity and dedication of filmmakers who used their craft to bring important human rights stories to the forefront. Justice V. Ramasubramanian extended his congratulations to the winners, commending their passion for filmmaking. He highlighted that audio-visual content is a powerful medium that can deeply influence the subconscious mind, making it an effective tool for social change. The Chairman noted the remarkable diversity of submissions, with entries received in 24 Indian languages from across the country, truly reflecting the national character of the Commission's outreach.

The NHRC's Short Film Competition, initiated in 2015, has consistently seen an increase in participation, indicating a growing public interest in human rights-related issues. This year, the competition witnessed a significant surge, with 526 entries compared to 303 in 2024. A rigorous three-stage selection process ensured that 438 entries were deemed eligible for evaluation by the jury. The Secretary General, Shri Bharat Lal, earlier provided a brief overview of the competition, underscoring its evolution into a major initiative for human rights promotion. Distinguished guests included NHRC Members Justice (Dr.) Bidhyut Ranjan Sarangi and Smt. Vijaya Bharati Sayani, along with other senior officials, who joined in celebrating the filmmakers' achievements.

Key Highlights

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) held its 2025 Short Film Competition awards ceremony in New Delhi, honoring seven filmmakers.
NHRC Chairman Justice V. Ramasubramanian praised the winners and underscored the powerful role of audio-visual content in influencing minds.
The competition received a record 526 entries this year from across the nation, submitted in 24 different Indian languages.
Sarika Jain's Hindi film 'Rani' won the first prize of Rs. 2 lakh, depicting the struggles of domestic workers and class divides.
Amal S. secured the second prize of Rs. 1.5 lakh for his Malayalam film 'Meanwhile She..', which addresses gender stereotypes and domestic violence.
The third prize of Rs. 1 lakh went to Sai Shashank Tati for his Tamil film 'The Delivery', highlighting the challenges faced by gig workers.
Four other films – 'Malti', 'Second Chance', 'Dusk of Life', and 'Bhagyashree' – received Special Mention Certificates and cash awards of Rs. 50,000 each.
All award-winning films will be made available on the NHRC website for public use by various organizations to spread human rights awareness.

Why Does This Matter?

This competition matters immensely because it transforms abstract concepts of human rights into tangible, relatable stories through the powerful medium of cinema. Films have a unique ability to challenge deep-rooted stereotypes, break down societal barriers, and inspire individuals to act. By showcasing the struggles of marginalized communities, domestic workers, gig economy employees, and victims of gender-based violence, these films foster empathy and understanding among a wider audience. They serve as a crucial platform for voices that might otherwise remain unheard, bringing critical issues to national attention and prompting reflection and dialogue.

Moreover, the availability of these award-winning films on the NHRC website ensures their impact extends far beyond the ceremony. Government bodies, educational institutions, and civil society organizations can utilize these creative works as powerful tools for advocacy and awareness campaigns. This initiative nurtures young filmmakers, empowering them to become pioneers in spreading human rights awareness and driving social change. By encouraging artistic expression on such vital subjects, the NHRC is not only recognizing talent but also investing in the future of human rights education and protection, making a tangible difference in the lives of ordinary people by highlighting and addressing their fundamental rights.