Desi Oon Wins Jury Award for Best Commissioned Film at International Animation Festival

The World is Buzzing About a New Star in Indian Animation – Desi Oon Takes the Crown!

For years, the animation landscape has been largely dominated by Hollywood and global studios. But a quietly powerful force is emerging from India, and it’s captivating the world with its unique vision and artistry. Today, we’re thrilled to share some incredible news: Desi Oon, a remarkable animated film by filmmaker Suresh Eriyat, has been awarded the Jury Award for Best Commissioned Film at the Annecy International Animation Festival 2025 in France! This monumental win is a significant step forward for Indian animation and a testament to the hard work and passion of the creative team behind this breathtaking film.

A Deep Dive into the Story – The Making of Desi Oon

Desi Oon isn’t your typical action-packed, blockbuster animation. It’s a deeply thoughtful and visually stunning film centered around a young boy grappling with grief and the complexities of family. The story unfolds through a series of imaginative vignettes, each meticulously crafted to evoke a powerful emotional response. It’s a narrative that explores themes of memory, loss, and the importance of connection – all told through a distinct and uniquely Indian aesthetic.

From Indie to International: The Journey of Desi Oon

Before this incredible victory, Desi Oon was a relatively unknown project. However, the success of the Create in India Challenge – an initiative launched by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting – has propelled it onto the global stage. This challenge is designed to identify and support innovative, independent artists across India, providing them with crucial platforms and resources. Desi Oon’s journey exemplifies this spirit perfectly.

The Create in India Challenge: More Than Just an Animation Competition

Let’s quickly recap the Create in India Challenge. Launched in 2021, this initiative is a cornerstone of the government’s vision for India’s creative sector. It’s a structured program that actively fosters collaboration between artists, designers, and technologists, and crucially, it’s designed to prioritize and elevate local talent. The challenge isn’t just about creating animation; it’s about cultivating a robust ecosystem for Indian creative production.

• The Goal: The challenge aims to identify and support promising individuals, teams, and projects – including animation – across the country.
• The Impact: It’s fostering a wave of innovation, encouraging cross-disciplinary collaboration, and providing vital support to budding talents.
• The Result: The challenge has already produced a record number of successful projects, and Desi Oon is a shining example of this success.

The Jury Award – A Moment of Brilliance

The Jury Award for Best Commissioned Film is a huge validation for the artistic vision and dedication of Suresh Eriyat and his team. It’s a recognition of the film’s originality, technical excellence, and emotional resonance. It’s a truly inspiring moment for the entire Indian animation community.

Beyond the Award: The Ripple Effect

The WAVES 2025 awards aren’t just about prestige; they’re about momentum. This win has ignited a sense of excitement and possibility throughout the Indian animation industry. It showcases the incredible potential within India’s creative workforce.

What Does This Mean for the Future?

Desi Oon’s success is a powerful indicator of what’s possible when we prioritize support for local talent and foster collaborative environments. It underscores the importance of platforms like the Create in India Challenge and reminds us that India’s animation industry has a bright and exciting future.

Conclusion: A Story of Innovation and Inspiration

Desi Oon’s journey is a remarkable illustration of the transformative power of a well-designed film. It’s a testament to the dedication of the filmmakers, the vision of the Create in India Challenge, and the unwavering belief in the creative potential of India. We’re excited to see what the future holds for this incredible film and the countless talented individuals it has inspired.