'Crossing Bridges' wins Rajat Kamal award at the 61st National Film Awards

Itanagar: 'Crossing Bridges' became the first ever feature film in an Arunachalee language to win the prestigious Rajat Kamal for direction in the 61st National Film Award.

It was chosen under 'the best feature film in the language specified other than Schedule-VIII of the Constitution'.

The award, comprising one lakh rupees each for the producer and director, was announced on April 16.

Director and script writer of the film Sange Dorjee Thongdok would receive the award from President Pranab Mukherjee at a function in New Delhi on May 3 next, sources said here today.

Overwhelmed at the news, Chief Minister Nabam Tuki congratulated its director-script writer Thongdok, saying this is just the tip of the iceberg and the film world could expect many breakthrough in times to come.

"That is why the state government has decided to encourage and promote state's budding filmmakers to be part of the global film industry that could ensure name, fame and money," Tuki said in a statement from New Delhi.

IPR secretary Dani Salu also congratulated the director and the producer for showcasing how Arunachalees maintain their rich culture and tradition despite leading a very strenuous hard life.

Thongdok, who graduated from Kolkata-based Satyajit Ray Film Institute in 2008, made the best use of his calibre by venturing into a new arena and succeeded in his maiden attempt, Salu said.