Shriya Pilgaonkar on being part of the jury for the upcoming Indian Film Festival of LA: “I have always wanted to establish myself as a global actor”

Actor Shriya Pilgaonkar joins the jury for the upcoming Indian Film Festival of Los Angeles, where she will judge the Shorts category. Pilgaonkar, known for her roles in Hindi and Marathi cinema such as Fan (2016), Ekulti Ek (2013), and Aranya (2021), as well as series like Mirzapur and The Broken News, views this opportunity as a significant step towards her goal of achieving global recognition.

Shriya Pilgaonkar serves as a jury member for IFFLA 2024

“I have always wanted to establish myself as a global actor, engaging in diverse roles and participating in film festivals aligns perfectly with that ambition,” Pilgaonkar shares.

She continued, “I am really excited to watch a lot of films deeply rooted in South Asian culture. It’s always inspiring to witness new and emerging storytellers,” Pilgaonkar remarks.

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The festival, running from June 27 to June 30, holds special significance for Pilgaonkar due to its focus on South Asian cultural themes. She views this experience as not only an opportunity to appreciate cinema but also as a learning curve for her aspirations in directing and producing. “There is so much talent. It really motivates me. I also wish to direct and produce. This experience will teach me a lot and give me the opportunity to meet many people,” the actor adds.

Reflecting on the recent success of Indian films on the global stage, such as Payal Kapadia’s All We Imagine as Light winning the Grand Prix at the Cannes International Film Festival, Pilgaonkar expresses hope for more substantial support for independent filmmakers.

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“It has been an exceptional year for Indian cinema internationally, but I hope we can provide better financial support through scholarships, grants, and funding. There is so much untapped talent waiting for opportunities,” Pilgaonkar emphasises, adding that international film festivals play a crucial role in promoting authentic storytelling and motivating filmmakers worldwide.

Pilgaonkar’s participation in the Indian Film Festival of Los Angeles marks an exciting milestone in her career, reflecting her dedication to diverse roles and global engagement in the film industry.

Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: Shriya Pilgaonkar reveals she ‘forced’ her mom Supriya Pilagaonkar to watch Mirzapur; says, “It was too much for her”