Actress-filmmaker Nandita Das is part of the seven-member jury at the 30th Busan International Film Festival (BIFF), chaired by Korean filmmaker N. Hong-jin. The festival organizers announced this on Wednesday.

Nandita Das, who has delivered brilliant performances in films like “Earth”, “Fire”, and “Bawandar”, directed the film “Firaaq” in 2008. She has been part of the jury at several international film festivals, including Cannes.

The BIFF jury also includes Hong Kong actor Tony Leung Ka-fai.

At BIFF, awards will be given in five categories: Best Film, Director, ‘Special Jury Prize’, Best Actor/Actress, and ‘Artistic Contribution’.

Busan International Film Festival

The Busan International Film Festival (BIFF) is one of Asia’s most significant film festivals, first held in 1996 to promote Asian cinema and support emerging filmmakers. It is held annually in Busan, South Korea, and has become a major platform for discovering new talent and showcasing a diverse range of films from across the continent.

Earth

Earth is the third planet from the Sun and the only known astronomical object to harbor life. Its history spans over 4.5 billion years, beginning with its formation from the solar nebula and evolving through major geological and biological changes, including the development of a breathable atmosphere and the proliferation of countless species.

Fire

Fire is not a specific place or cultural site, but a natural phenomenon that has been fundamental to human civilization. Its mastery by early humans allowed for cooking, protection, and tool-making, fundamentally shaping our development. It also holds profound symbolic meaning in countless cultures, often representing purity, destruction, renewal, and the divine.

Bawandar

I am unable to provide a summary for “Bawandar” as it does not refer to a widely recognized cultural site, historical place, or city. It may be a misspelling or a very localized name not present in major geographical or cultural databases.

Firaaq

I am not familiar with a significant place or cultural site named “Firaaq.” It is possible the name may be misspelled, refers to a very localized or lesser-known location, or could be confused with a similar-sounding name like Fès (a city in Morocco) or Fira (a town in Santorini, Greece). Could you please provide any additional context or clarify the spelling?

Cannes

Cannes is a glamorous coastal city on the French Riviera, internationally renowned for hosting the annual Cannes Film Festival. While it was a modest fishing village in its early history, it transformed into a luxury tourist destination in the 19th century after a visit by British aristocrat Lord Brougham.

BIFF

I am unable to provide a summary for “BIFF” as it is not a recognized place or cultural site. It most commonly refers to the Busan International Film Festival in South Korea or the Berkeley International Film Festival in the United States. Could you please clarify which specific “BIFF” you are referring to?