Terms & Conditions:
- The film should be your original work, up to 10 minutes in length (including credits).
- Permissions must be secured for any third-party music, visuals, or content, and all clearance for Social Media & YouTube/Vimeo Permissions and Copyright rules.
- Video language can be a mix of Bengali / English / Hindi, with English subtitles preferred.
- Video must be of acceptable technical quality (preferably 1080p resolution up to 4k ), with clear audio, stable visuals.
- Provide poster or stills, a short synopsis, and the director’s bio along with the film.
- Include your Puja Committee name, location, contact person, and, if applicable, sponsor details.
Process:
Fill out the Short Film Submission
Upload your film via a file transfer to be communicated to the successful entrants.
Submit the required materials (synopsis, stills/poster, director’s bio, etc.) together with the film.
Once submitted, promote your film among your community, social media, local & diaspora audiences to build engagement.
Judgement Procedure:
A Jury Panel, consisting of experts in film, culture, and art, will evaluate approximately 70% of the score. They will assess storytelling, thematic relevance, technical quality (video, sound, editing), creativity, your events, Adda, Talent Showcasing, and how authentically the film reflects Durga Puja traditions, especially the essence of culture and rituals those rooted in Kolkata & West Bengal.
Audience votes and engagement will make up about 30% of the total score. We will measure this by the number of views, shares, likes, and votes, comments, social media reach, promotional effort, and use of QR codes or digital tools to engage audiences.
TIMELINE:
- Submissions are open from 5th October 2025 till 15th October 2025, though early submission is encouraged to allow time for audience engagement.
- All valid entry short films will be on display on our YouTube channel, Facebook, and our App from 15th October to 2nd November 2025.
- After initial submissions, a jury shortlist will be announced.
- Audience voting and engagement will run through the Puja season till Diwali.
- Award Winners will be declared via the Darshanarthi Live platform and social media on the 5th of November 2025.
The Award Event will be LIVE Online with Jury Members, Influencers, and scope for all shortlisted top pujas to showcase their puja in Kolkata/India, based on Print/TV/Digital Media.