Mumbai, Dec 30 (IANS) Filmmaker Suparn S Varma, who is known for directing noteworthy projects such as "The Family Man", "Rana Naidu", and "The Trial", has added another feather to his cap with his latest outing "Flames".

The presenter and producer of the project revealed that "Flames" was made with a quiet conviction to observe rather than judge. He added that it is an attempt to allow lived realities to speak in their own voice.

Shedding further light on the project, Suparn said in a statement, "Under Ravi Shankar Kaushik’s sensitive direction, the film doesn’t seek easy answers or dramatic resolutions; it simply stays with its characters and their circumstances with honesty and restraint."

Expressing his delight at the film's latest triumph, he added, "Recognition from a platform like NHRIFF, which places human dignity, justice, and social truth at the centre of cinema, is especially meaningful for us. It reinforces our belief that deeply rooted, locally told stories can resonate far beyond their place of origin, and that independent cinema still has the power to foster empathy, reflection and conversation across borders.”

'Flames' director Ravi Shankar Kaushik added, “Receiving this award at a festival dedicated to human rights is deeply meaningful. Flames is a very personal film, and it’s encouraging to see it connect with audiences beyond India."

The screening was followed by engaged discussions with viewers and delegates. The NHRIFF jury also appreciated the film for its sensitive handling of complex themes and its clear, understated storytelling.

Jointly backed by Suparn S Varma, Rashi Aggarwal, Suunil Jaiin, Aditya Joshi, and Shivam Gupta, with Jasdev Singh and Arpita Raghuwanshi as co-producers, "Flames" stars Vikram Kochhar as the lead, who has previously worked in movies such as "Boong" and "No Land’s Man".

Additionally, the drama also has an ensemble cast of many first-time actors from the villages of Jatauli and Lohari.

--IANS

pm/