Bijukumar Damodaran

Bijukumar Damodaran, widely known as Dr. Biju, is a three-time National Award-winning filmmaker and one of the most influential voices in contemporary Indian cinema. A self-taught filmmaker with a distinctive narrative style, Dr. Biju is celebrated for his powerful, socially conscious films that illuminate critical issues such as gender equality, environmental justice, and the rights of marginalized communities. Born into a socially and economically backward Dalit community in Kerala, Dr. Biju's journey from humble beginnings to international acclaim is a testament to his vision, resilience, and unwavering commitment to truth in storytelling. His groundbreaking debut film, "Saira", premiered at the Cannes Film Festival in 2007 under the "Cinema of the World" section-marking the beginning of an illustrious global career. Over the years, Dr. Biju has directed 15 acclaimed feature films, many of which have been showcased at prestigious film festivals across the world, including Cannes, Shanghai, Montreal, Moscow, Telluride, Cairo, Jeonju, Tallinn, Chicago, and IFFI Goa, among others. His film "Veyilmarangal "(Trees Under the Sun) won the Golden Goblet Award for Best Artistic Achievement at the Shanghai International Film Festival in 2019, further establishing his international stature. His new film "Papa Buka", a Papua New Guinea-India co-production, has been selected as Papua New Guinea's first-ever official submission to the 2026 Oscars in the Best International Feature Film category." He was the recipient of India's National film awards for three times during the years 2010,2013 and 2015 Dr. Biju's works are known for their deep humanism and social commentary. He uses the medium of cinema not just for artistic expression but as a powerful tool for social change-sparking conversations, challenging injustices, and amplifying marginalized voices. His films are a unique blend of realism and poetic vision, leaving a profound impact on both the cinematic landscape and social discourse. In addition to his filmmaking, Dr. Biju has contributed significantly as a film juror at prestigious Film festivals and platforms, including India's National Film Awards (2012) and India's Oscar Selection Committee (2015). He is also a prolific writer, having published numerous books and articles on cinema, reflecting his deep understanding and scholarly engagement with the art form. Today, Dr. Biju stands as a beacon of inspiration for countless aspiring artists, especially from marginalized communities in Kerala and across India. His body of work not only redefines Indian cinema on the global stage but also upholds the power of storytelling to transform society. Dr. Biju is a professional homeopathic medical doctor and serves as the District Medical Officer in the Government of Kerala."