Indo-Canadian director Nisha Pahuja’s film, “To Kill a Tiger,” has earned an Oscar nomination for Documentary Feature Film at the 96th Academy Awards. Co-produced by Pahuja’s Notice Pictures and the National Film Board of Canada, the documentary unfolds the narrative of Ranjit, a Jharkhand farmer in India, advocating for justice for his sexually assaulted 13-year-old daughter.
In a country where rape is alarmingly frequent, with conviction rates below 30%, Ranjit’s unprecedented decision to support his daughter sets a remarkable story in motion. Pahuja expressed her excitement about the Oscar nomination, acknowledging the honor for the creative team and underscoring the film’s potential impact on raising awareness about justice for survivors.
The film, born out of Pahuja’s commitment to addressing human rights issues, has already received over 20 Canadian and international awards. Pahuja, an Emmy-nominated filmmaker based in Toronto, previously gained recognition for her work on various human rights topics, including violence against women in India.
“To Kill a Tiger” had its world premiere at TIFF, winning the Amplify Voices Award for Best Canadian Feature Film. The film’s accolades include Best Documentary Feature at the Palm Springs International Film Festival and three Canadian Screen Awards. Pahuja’s extensive career in human rights filmmaking, marked by notable works like “The World Before Her,” has contributed to her standing as an acclaimed filmmaker.
The 96th Academy Awards ceremony, scheduled for March 10, 2024, at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood, holds the promise of further recognition for this impactful documentary that addresses vital societal issues.
