Award Categories at the prestigious Dadasaheb Phalke International Film Festival: Honouring Excellence in Indian Cinema

Named after the Father of Indian Cinema, Dadasaheb Phalke, DPIFF has evolved into a platform that not only celebrates mainstream excellence but also gives voice to emerging talents, regional artistry, and international brilliance.

Here’s a detailed look at the Award Categories that make DPIFF one of the most comprehensive and inclusive celebrations of cinematic achievement.

Mainstream Cinema Awards:

Best Film

Honours the most impactful and well-executed film of the year across all parameters—story, performance, direction, and technical finesse.

Best Actor / Best Actress

Recognizes exceptional performances by lead male and female actors in feature films.

Best Director

Awarded to the filmmaker whose vision, direction, and narrative mastery create an unforgettable cinematic experience.

Best Cinematographer

Celebrates excellence in visual storytelling through outstanding cinematography and camera work.

Critics’ Choice Awards

Critics Best Film

Selected by a panel of seasoned critics, this award highlights films that offer artistic depth, cultural relevance, and innovation.

Critics Best Actor / Actress

Recognizes nuanced performances that may not be commercial blockbusters but are critically acclaimed for their depth and authenticity.

Supporting & Character Role Awards

Best Actor / Actress in a Supporting Role

Honours actors who enhance the story through powerful supporting performances.

Best Actor / Actress in a Negative Role

Celebrates performers who portrayed antagonistic roles with intensity, complexity, and impact.

Best Actor / Actress in a Comic Role

Acknowledges the talent of those who brought humor and light-heartedness to the screen with impeccable timing.

Special Performance Awards

Most Versatile Actor / Actress

Given to artists who demonstrated a wide range of characters across different genres or projects in the year.

Most Promising Actor / Actress

Recognizes breakout talent showing immense potential and creativity early in their careers.

Film of the Year

The highest honour, celebrating the most influential and culturally significant film of the year.

International Cinema Recognition

Best International Feature Film

Honours outstanding filmmaking from across the globe that resonates with audiences and critics alike.

Best Actor / Actress in an International Feature Film

Celebrates powerful performances by international artists.

Outstanding Contribution in Global Cinema

Recognizes individuals who have had a transformative impact on world cinema through innovation, vision, or lifetime achievements.

International Artist of the Year

Awarded to a global entertainer who has left a mark across borders with exceptional talent and reach.

Digital & Streaming Excellence

Best Web Series

Celebrates original, engaging, and high-quality storytelling in the digital streaming space.

Best Actor / Actress in a Web Series

Honours the best performances in web-based content, which is now a major entertainment format.

Critics Best Web Series / Actor / Actress

Selected by critics for excellence in writing, direction, and performance in digital content.

Short Films & Indie Works

Best Short Film

Highlights short-form storytelling that delivers powerful narratives and creative innovation in limited run time.

Music Industry Awards

Best Music Director

Awarded to the composer whose score or soundtrack defined the musical landscape of the year.

Best Playback Singer – Male / Female

Honours vocalists whose songs made a deep impression on audiences.

Outstanding Contribution in the Music Industry

Celebrates individuals who have contributed to the evolution of Indian music over the years.

Television Industry Recognition

Television Series of the Year

Acknowledges exceptional storytelling and production in Indian television.

Best Actor / Actress in a Television Series

Recognizes lead performances that have captivated audiences on the small screen.

Legacy & Lifetime Awards

Outstanding Contribution in the Film Industry

Given to a veteran or visionary whose lifelong dedication has shaped the Indian film industry.

Final Thoughts

The prestigious Dadasaheb Phalke International Film Festival Awards are more than trophies—they are tributes to passion, perseverance, and artistic excellence. These categories ensure that every aspect of cinema—from acting and direction to music and digital storytelling—is celebrated and brought into the spotlight.

As India continues to grow as a global cinematic powerhouse, DPIFF remains committed to honouring legends, nurturing new talent, and uniting cultures through cinema.

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Location: Mumbai, India