An annual celebration of unique films from around India and the world, the 10^th Ajanta-Ellora International Film Festival (AIFF 2025) is scheduled from January 15 to 19, 2025 at Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar. This year, the most prestigious honour of the festival – the Padmapani, Lifetime Achievement Award will be conferred upon the renowned director, screenwriter, producer, and playwright, Sai Paranjpye for her invaluable contributions to the Indian cinema. The declaration was made here today by Mr. Nandkishor Kagliwal, Chairman, AIFF organizing committee, Chief Mentor, Mr. Ankushrao Kadam and Honorary Chairman of AIFF, Director Ashutosh Gowariker. The Padmapani Award Selection Committee consisting of famous film critic Mrs. Latika Padgaonkar (Chairperson), Director Ashutosh Gowariker, Sunil Sukthankar and Chandrakant Kulkarni. The award comprises a Padmapani Memento, a letter of honour and a monetary reward of rupees two lakhs.

The Padmapani Lifetime Achievement Award will be conferred upon Mrs. Sai Paranjpye during the opening ceremony of the festival on Wednesday, January 15, 2025 at 6.00 PM at Rukmini Auditorium, MGM University Campus, Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar. The ceremony will take place in the gracious presence of various national and international artists, eminent personalities and film lovers from different walks of life. The film festival will take place at PVR INOX, Prozone Mall for the next five days.

Sai Paranjpye has been a prominent figure in Indian cinema for over four decades. Her impactful Hindi films have given Indian cinema a unique identity. Her movies are known for their deep emotional touch and insightful commentary on human relationships. Some of her notable works include Sparsh (1980), Chashme Buddoor (1981), Katha (1983), Disha (1990), Choodiyan (1993), and Saaz (1997). In addition to film direction, Mrs. Paranjpye has directed several significant plays and children’s dramas. She has also made substantial contributions to Marathi literature, particularly children’s literature.

In recognition of her remarkable contributions, the Government of India honoured her with the Padma Bhushan award in 2006. She has also been celebrated with accolades such as the Filmfare Award and the Maharashtra Foundation Award. Moreover, Mrs. Paranjpye served as the Chairperson of the Children’s Film Society of India (CFSI) for two consecutive terms