Veteran director-writer Sai Paranjpye, known for helming popular films like 'Sparsh' and 'Chashme Buddoor', will be honoured with Indian Excellence in Cinema Award at the upcoming 18th Jio MAMI Mumbai International Film Festival.
The 78-year-old Padma Bhushan awardee will be recognised for her valuable contribution to Indian cinema.
Filmmaker Vishal Bharadwaj, one of the jury members, said, "Sai Paranjpye's career has spanned over four decades. Sai's cinema is defined by certain humanity."
"Her films didn't have over-sized heroes and villains. She told slice of life stories about common people. Her work continues to inspire generations of filmmakers."
Besides films, Paranjpye has written and directed many Marathi plays like 'Jaswandi', 'Sakkhe Shejari' and 'Albel'.
She was awarded the Padma Bhushan award in 2006 in recognition of her artistic talents.
Meanwhile, acclaimed Chinese filmmaker Jia Zhangke, credited with movies likes 'Still Life' and 'The World', will be the recipient of the International Excellence in Cinema Award at the Festival.
"This year, our international award goes to Chinese director Jia Zhangke. He belongs to the sixth generation of Chinese filmmakers. His work has offered a unique perspective on a transitional generation," said director Dibakar Banerjee, another jury member of the fest.
"Jia Zhangke has directed 13 films in 21 years. His works continue to break boundaries and move the world."
The two awards were announced today at the launch of the festival's new edition.
The fest will open with actress Konkona Sensharma's directorial debut 'A Death in the Gunj' on October 21.
Filmmaker Karan Johar, also one of the trustees, said he is most excited for the movie, which saw its world premiere at the coveted Toronto International Film Festival earlier this month.
"I was in Toronto and was very excited looking at their movie selection but when I saw the line up here, I think ours is better than them. I really want to watch Konkona's film. I have to say this as a member of the film fraternity, I am so excited to see her film. I can't wait to see it."
Konkona starred in Johar's 2009 production 'Wake Up Sid'.
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