Indian film 'Angh' wins Toronto prize, qualifies for Oscars 2027

Indian feature film Angh, directed by Teja Rio, has taken the world by storm after winning the Platform Prize at the 2026 Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF). The accolade not only recognises the film’s artistic merit but also guarantees it a place in the Best International Feature Film category at the 2027 Oscars.

Why the jury chose Angh

TIFF’s jury praised Angh for its fresh perspective, striking cinematography and the way it brings the unique world of Nagaland to life with depth and beauty. They highlighted director Teja Rio’s vision, courage and determination.

Direct entry to the Oscars

Since 2024, the Platform Prize has been one of the awards that automatically qualifies winners for the Oscars’ international feature film section. Angh’s triumph therefore secures its direct entry.

Plot of Angh

The story is set in the 1960s in Nagaland and follows a father and his son as they navigate life in a changing society. After a missionary arrives, the son becomes fascinated by new ways of living, prompting the film to explore the impact of religious conversion on Naga culture and the clash between tradition and modernity.

Language and authenticity

Angh is predominantly shot in Konyak, the language of the Konyak community in Nagaland. The use of this rarely seen language adds authenticity and gives the film a distinctive voice within Indian cinema.

From short to feature

Teja Rio first created a short film titled Angh in 2021, which won a Special Jury Award at the Clermont-Ferrand International Short Film Festival. The success of the short inspired him to expand the story into a full-length feature.

About director Teja Rio

Teja Rio is a filmmaker from Nagaland who studied at the National Film and Television School in the UK. His work focuses on bringing stories from North‑East India to a wider audience. Prior to Angh, he directed shorts such as Disassociate, Checkpoint and A Day on Sunday.