Payal Kapadia’s film All We Imagine as Light has made history by earning a nomination for Best Film Not in the English Language at the 2025 British Academy Film Awards (BAFTA). This achievement marks a significant moment for Indian cinema, as the film becomes only the seventh Indian feature to be nominated in this prestigious category. It is also the first Indian film in over a decade to receive such recognition, following Ritesh Batra’s The Lunchbox in 2014.
The announcement comes shortly after Kapadia received a groundbreaking nomination for Best Director at the Golden Globes, another first for an Indian filmmaker. Her work has captivated audiences and critics alike, sparking conversations about the power of Indian storytelling on global platforms.
The British Academy of Film and Television Arts (BAFTA) celebrates excellence in both British and international cinema. This year, All We Imagine as Light finds itself in esteemed company. Other nominees in the category include Jacques Audiard’s Emilia Pérez, Walter Salles’ I’m Still Here, Rich Peppiatt’s Kneecap, and Mohammad Rasoulof’s The Seed of the Sacred Fig.
Kapadia expressed her gratitude for the nomination, emphasizing the collaborative effort behind the film’s success. “This recognition is not just for me but for every single person who poured their heart into this project,” she said in an interview. “To see an Indian film resonate on this level reaffirms the universality of our stories.”
The film explores themes of memory, loss, and resilience, presented through a poetic narrative that intertwines personal and political struggles. Set against a visually stunning backdrop, Kapadia’s work blends realism with dreamlike elements, creating a cinematic experience that lingers long after the credits roll. Critics have praised its innovative storytelling and the depth of its emotional resonance.
The BAFTA nomination is expected to bring renewed attention to the film and its message. Industry insiders believe that such recognition could pave the way for more Indian films to enter mainstream conversations at international awards. “This is a proud moment for Indian cinema,” said filmmaker Anurag Kashyap. “Payal’s work reminds us that our stories have the power to connect across cultures and borders.”
Kapadia’s journey to this milestone has been one of perseverance and passion. She began her career with short films and documentaries, gradually building a reputation for her unique voice and storytelling style. Her previous works, including the acclaimed A Night of Knowing Nothing, have also garnered international acclaim, setting the stage for her current success.
The film’s cast and crew have also shared their excitement about the nomination. Lead actor Nandita Sen called it a “validation of years of hard work and belief in the story we wanted to tell.” Cinematographer Ravi Varma highlighted the importance of representation, stating, “It’s heartening to see Indian stories told in our voices receiving global recognition.”
The BAFTA nomination for All We Imagine as Light is not just a celebration of Kapadia’s talent but also a testament to the evolving landscape of Indian cinema. With platforms like BAFTA and the Golden Globes acknowledging Indian films, the industry is witnessing a shift towards greater inclusivity and diversity.
As the awards ceremony approaches, anticipation builds around the possibility of Kapadia taking home the coveted trophy. Regardless of the outcome, the nomination itself stands as a monumental achievement, inspiring a new generation of filmmakers to dream big and tell their stories fearlessly.
Kapadia remains humble amidst the accolades, choosing to focus on the impact of her work. “For me, the biggest reward is knowing that our film has touched lives and sparked conversations,” she said. “Awards are wonderful, but the real honor is seeing our stories being embraced by the world.”
With All We Imagine as Light, Payal Kapadia has not only etched her name in cinematic history but also brought Indian storytelling to the forefront of global cinema. Her journey serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration for aspiring filmmakers, proving that authentic voices can transcend boundaries and create magic on the world stage.
The nomination of All We Imagine as Light also highlights the growing recognition of independent cinema from India. Unlike mainstream Bollywood productions, Kapadia’s film stands apart with its introspective approach and subtle storytelling. The film explores universal themes but remains deeply rooted in its Indian context, providing a rare blend that has captivated international audiences.
Industry experts believe that such achievements underscore the importance of supporting independent filmmakers. Film critic Meera Sharma noted, “Payal Kapadia has demonstrated that Indian cinema has so much more to offer beyond song-and-dance spectacles. Her work challenges stereotypes and invites the world to see the depth of our narratives.”
The nomination has also reignited conversations about the representation of South Asian voices on global platforms. For decades, Indian filmmakers have struggled to break into international awards circuits dominated by Western narratives. Kapadia’s success is seen as a step toward bridging this gap. Film historian Arjun Malhotra remarked, “This nomination is a reminder of how far Indian cinema has come and how much further it can go.”
The buzz around All We Imagine as Light is expected to draw attention to other Indian films with a similar sensibility. Independent directors who focus on nuanced, character-driven stories are likely to benefit from the spotlight on Kapadia’s work. Producers and distributors are also more inclined to back projects with unique storytelling approaches, creating a ripple effect in the industry.
Cultural institutions in India have taken note of the film’s success as well. Discussions about establishing stronger funding and support systems for independent filmmakers have gained momentum. Universities and film schools have begun featuring Kapadia’s work in their curricula to inspire students and foster an appreciation for alternative storytelling styles.
The nomination has even sparked renewed interest in Indian films among international audiences. Streaming platforms are seeing an uptick in viewership for Kapadia’s earlier works and similar Indian titles. This surge in global attention is helping Indian filmmakers build connections across borders, potentially leading to more collaborations and co-productions.
As anticipation builds for the BAFTA ceremony, Kapadia continues to focus on her craft. She has already hinted at her next project, which promises to explore untold stories from India’s rural heartlands. “I want to keep pushing boundaries and bring stories to the forefront that might otherwise remain unheard,” she said.
The nomination of All We Imagine as Light is more than a milestone for Payal Kapadia—it is a defining moment for Indian cinema. It validates the power of independent storytelling and its ability to resonate with audiences across the globe. As the world watches her journey unfold, Kapadia has become a symbol of hope, proving that authenticity and vision can break through even the most entrenched barriers in the film industry.