JURY MEMBERS

Mr PRASOON JOSHI

Poet. Screenwriter. Advertising professional

Prasoon Joshi is an eminent lyricist, poet, screenwriter and the chairperson of the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC). He is best known for his work in acclaimed movies like Fanna, Delhi-6, Ghajini and Bhaag Milkha Bhaag. His songs, including Roobaroo, Chand Sifarish, Maa, Masakali, Bolo Na and Maston Ka Jhund, have captured the soul and imagination of audiences worldwide. He has twice received the National Film Award for best lyrics for his work in Taare Zameen Par and Chittagong. Joshi was honoured with Padma Shri by the Government of India in 2015 for his immense contribution to the arts, literature, and advertising field. Read more

Mr AANAND L RAI

Filmmaker

Known for seamlessly combining commercial success with artistic integrity, Aanand L Rai is a pioneer among his peers in the Indian film landscape. Hailing from Delhi, his journey in the industry has been marked by a distinctive blend of heartwarming narratives and compelling characters. His films such as Tanu Weds Manu and Raanjhanaa made him a filmmaker who often explored unconventional themes with a focus on human relationships. With a keen eye for talent, Rai has collaborated with some of the industry's finest actors and writers, creating a cinematic legacy that reflects his commitment to pushing creative boundaries. Read more

Mr KABIR BEDI

ACTOR

From international cinema to television and theatre, Kabir Bedi has done it all. In a career spanning over 43 years, Bedi has been a part of over 60 Indian films including Aravaan, Taj Mahal: An Eternal Love Story, Dilwale, Saheb Biwi Aur Gangster 3 and others. Known for his deep baritone voice, Bedi has also left an indelible mark on English and Italian cinema. His Italian series Sandokan made him a major star in Europe. The veteran actor has also been a part of the world's most-watched TV series, The Bold and the Beautiful. Bedi has also been a voting member of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences since 1982.

Ms MEENAKSHI SESHADRI

Actor

Renowned for her versatile performances in the Hindi film industry during the 1980s and 1990s, Meenakshi Seshadri is an iconic figure in the film industry even after 3 decades. Throughout her career, Seshadri was seen in a number of memorable performances showcasing her versatility in movies like Hero, Meri Jung and Ghayal. She seamlessly transitioned between portraying strong, independent women and endearing characters, leaving a lasting impact on Indian cinema. Meenakshi Seshadri is not only remembered for her acting, but also for her elegance, charisma, and significant contributions to the entertainment industry.

Mr NEERAJ GHAYWAN

Director/ Writer

Neeraj Ghaywan, who started his career by assisting Anurag Kashyap in acclaimed projects like Gangs of Wasseypur (2012) and Ugly (2013), has carved a niche as a prominent filmmaker in the Hindi film industry. A contemporary luminary, Neeraj has redefined the art of storytelling by addressing some of the most critical issues on caste and gender in his projects. His directorial debut, Masaan (2015), about the relationship between two individuals from different castes, is considered one of the most path-breaking Hindi films of our times. His acclaimed 2017 Short Film Juice earned him the Filmfare Award for Best Short Film (fiction). Read more

Mr Ramesh S Taurani

Veteran Producer

A veteran producer, Ramesh S Taurani co-founded Tips Industries Limited, a music record label and film production-distribution company in 1975. Over the years, he has produced popular films such as Soldier, Kya Kehna, The Legend Of Bhagat Singh, Ishq Vishk and Race, among others, and has become a force to reckon with. More recently, he co-produced Katrina Kaif and Vijay Sethupathi starrer Merry Christmas. Taurani has also backed Punjabi films like Mel Karade Rabba and Jihne Mera Dil Luteya.

Ms TAVISHI PAITANDY

Editor Entertainment, News18

Tavishi Paitandy is the Entertainment and Lifestyle Editor of News18.com. A true-blue Entertainment journalist for 20 years, Tavishi is the perfect outsider in the inner-circles of Bollywood. She has closely followed and understands the passion that drives stars and the Indian entertainment industry. At the same time, the journalist in her brings out the ability to be dispassionate and critically analyse the film world's work. Tavishi brings to the table the strong editorial voice of News18.com to a Jury comprising industry bigwigs.