Jaipur. Lomharsh’s 25-minute short film Planet has been awarded the Best Short Film Fiction Award at the 17th Jaipur International Film Festival (JIFF). The film poignantly addresses the climate crisis through the perspective of five children who embark on a mission to save Earth after witnessing the devastating impact of global warming.
Planet uniquely portrays the climate emergency through its young protagonists, inspired by the innovative teachings of their schoolteacher. Witnessing inadequate action from adults, the children take charge, determined to make a difference. This powerful narrative resonates as both a cautionary tale and a beacon of hope, urging viewers to take responsibility for the planet’s future.
The film’s impactful storytelling has already gained recognition, being a semi-finalist at the 12th CMS Vatavaran Film Festival. It underscores the transformative potential of cinema in addressing pressing global issues.
Indo-Australian filmmaker Lomharsh, renowned for his socially conscious narratives, has previously earned acclaim for works such as Yeh Hai India, the Chicken Biryani Series, and Mintoo. With Planet, Lomharsh continues his tradition of weaving critical themes into compelling stories that inspire change.
The film’s emotional depth is heightened by Kumar Deepak’s evocative music, featuring vocals by Altamash Faridi and Swati Sharma, with lyrics penned by Nitu Pandey Kranti. Its stellar cast, including Sanjay Vyas, Mitali Nankani, and a talented ensemble of young actors, brings authenticity and heart to the story. Casting director Kumar Shyam skillfully selected fresh talents, while cinematographer Raj Kiran Gupta and editor Varun Daya Shanakar crafted a visually striking narrative.
Under the production banner of Shilom Media LLP, executive producer Avinash Kumar led the production team in realizing Lomharsh’s vision. Art director Vinay Singh and makeup artist Shakeel Khan added further realism and emotional resonance to the film.
Planet marks another milestone in Lomharsh’s collaboration with producer Sandeep Choudhary, following the success of Yeh Hai India and Chicken Biryani, both recipients of national and international accolades.
As the world confronts escalating climate challenges, Planet delivers a powerful message: the fight for our planet’s survival is a shared responsibility, regardless of age. The film is set for additional screenings at global film festivals, where its urgent call to action is sure to leave a lasting impact.
