The 56th International Film Festival of India in Goa concluded with Iranian filmmaker Hesam Farahmand’s Raha sharing the Best First Film Director Award with Estonia’s Frank, directed by Tunis Pil.
The feature film Raha, starring Shahab Hosseini and Ghazal Shakeri, was produced by Saeed Khani. The film’s award recognizes Farahmand’s achievement in crafting a strong debut feature that resonated with the festival jury.
The festival’s Golden Peacock for Best Film, along with a $45,000 cash prize, was awarded to Young Skin, directed by Ashley Mifer, a co-production between Vietnam, Singapore, and Japan.
Other major awards included:
Best Director: Gundal by Santosh Dawajhar (India)
Special Jury Prize: Shadow of My Father by Akinola Davis Jr. (Nigeria & UK)
Best Actress: Yara Sophia Austen for Trouble-Free Girls (Slovenia)
Best Actor: Ove Meyer Rius for A Poet (Colombia)
UNESCO Gandhi Medal: Safe House by Erik Svensen (Norway)
The 56th International Film Festival of India took place on November 20–28, 2025, on the scenic island of Goa, celebrating global cinema and emerging talents.