Garhwal Post Bureau
Dehradun, 6 Oct: Filmmaker Harish Sharma had two awards, two standing ovations and three acclaimed works at the 11th Dehradun International Film Festival 2026, where his films explored faith, football and love.
At a press conference held at the Press Club in Dehradun, Sharma was joined by renowned actor and Uttarakhand artist Hemant Pandey, and former national-level footballer and veteran coach Bhairab Dutt.
Pandey highlighted the importance of films showcasing Uttarakhand’s heritage and destinations. He said, “More films of this nature need to be made. Cinema can play an important role in showcasing Uttarakhand and giving a significant boost to tourism in the state.”
Sharma urged the Uttarakhand government to pursue a regional film certification facility with the Central Government.
“Through the media, we would like to raise an important issue. Uttarakhand should have its own film certification facility for films made in and about the state. In fact, there should be regional certification facilities across states so that filmmakers do not have to depend entirely on Delhi or Mumbai. At present, the certification process can take nearly two months, which creates difficulties for independent and regional filmmakers. The Uttarakhand government should seriously pursue this matter with the Central Government,” Sharma said.
Sharma’s ‘Adi Kailash – A Forgotten Path to the Divine’ won the Best Tourism Documentary Award. Inspired by Dr. Lalit Pant’s book ‘Ajpathon Se Himshikharon Tak’, the film captures Uttarakhand’s spiritual, cultural and natural heritage.
Hemant Pandey’s performance adds emotional depth to the documentary and reflects his personal connection to the region.
“I have been associated with almost every film made by Harish Sharma. Our relationship goes back to 1987-88 in Pithoragarh, and that journey continues even today. I believe it will always continue. Being part of ‘Adi Kailash’ and shooting there was like returning to my roots,” Pandey said.
‘Brazil in Banaras: The Bhairab Dutt Story’ won the Best Sports Documentary Award.
The film chronicles Dutt’s life in football, from playing the Santosh Trophy for 12 consecutive years to nurturing young talent in Banaras. It captures his struggle, discipline, passion and selfless contribution to the sport.
Following the screening, audience members surrounded Dutt, interacted with him, took photographs and applauded his lifelong work with football and young players.
Sharma’s debut music video ‘Logon Mein Prem Hoga’, the only music video screened at the festival, also received warm appreciation.
The song’s message of love, peace and humanity is carried by the voices of Kavita Krishnamurti and Lucky Ali, with music composed by Padma Vibhushan awardee Dr. L. Subramaniam and lyrics by Sameer Anjaan.
Together, Sharma’s three works brought the festival three distinct worlds: the spiritual grandeur of the Himalayas and Adi Kailash, the perseverance of a footballer devoted to the game, and a musical appeal for love and humanity.
Reacting to the recognition, Sharma said, “Winning awards is certainly a matter of great happiness, but when an audience rises from its seats to applaud and emotionally connect with the stories we tell, there can be no greater honour for a filmmaker.”
With two awards, two standing ovations and three distinct stories, the 11th Dehradun International Film Festival became a memorable celebration for Harish Sharma and his team.
